If you were laid off, the WIOA Dislocated Worker program may help you pay for job training, career counseling, and job search support. The dislocated worker program San Bernardino residents use is offered through America's Job Center of California, and The Ayangbah Foundation can help you understand your options and get started.
Dislocated tech worker? Here's how to get back on track — The Ayangbah Foundation can help you. This guide explains the basics in plain English.
What Is a "Dislocated Worker"?
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a federal law that funds job training and employment services across the country. One part of WIOA serves dislocated workers. In general, this means people who:
- Were laid off or got a layoff notice
- Lost a job because a plant or business closed
- Were self-employed but lost their business because of the economy
- Are a "displaced homemaker" who relied on a family member's income and lost it
- Are the spouse of a military member who lost work due to a move
Exact rules can be detailed and can change. Your local America's Job Center of California (AJCC) makes the final eligibility decision.
What the Dislocated Worker Program San Bernardino Residents Use Can Offer
Services depend on your eligibility and local funding, but WIOA programs commonly offer:
- Career counseling to help you plan your next move
- Skills assessments to see what you already bring
- Job search help, including resume and interview support
- Training through approved providers, which may be paid for by the program
- Supportive services in some cases, such as help with transportation
This is why many people think of WIOA as a source of free job training programs for adults who have been laid off.
Help for Dislocated Tech Workers
Many dislocated tech workers in the Inland Empire have strong skills but are unsure where they fit next. Training can help you build on what you know, such as project work, data, customer support, or digital tools, and add skills like leadership, digital marketing, or business development. Some people use this time to start their own business or consulting work.
How to Get Started: Step by Step
- Gather your layoff information, such as your notice or last pay stub.
- Register on CalJOBS, California's online job and services system.
- Contact your local AJCC. The East Valley America's Job Center of California is at 500 Inland Center Dr, San Bernardino, (909) 382-0440. Confirm hours at workforce.sbcounty.gov.
- Ask about Dislocated Worker eligibility and training options.
- Choose a training path that matches your goals.
How The Ayangbah Foundation Can Help
The Ayangbah Foundation is an adult education and career training nonprofit in downtown San Bernardino. Our enrollment process includes intake, a WIOA eligibility check, and CalJOBS registration help, so you are not doing it all alone.
Our Career Readiness & Entrepreneurship Employment Training is a 40-hour, 4-week certificate program that meets in person, Monday to Friday, two hours a day. It is $0 for WIOA-eligible residents, and the next cohort starts in November 2026. You will cover leadership, digital marketing, grants and financial literacy, and business development, plus a career assessment and a personal 30/60/90-day plan.
FAQ
Do I qualify for the dislocated worker program if I quit my job?
Usually the program is for people who were laid off or lost work through no fault of their own. Ask your local America's Job Center of California about your situation.
Can I get training while collecting unemployment?
Many people look into training while receiving unemployment benefits, but rules apply. Check with the Employment Development Department (EDD) and your AJCC before you enroll.
Is The Ayangbah Foundation's training free for dislocated workers?
Our Career Readiness & Entrepreneurship Employment Training is $0 for WIOA-eligible residents. We help check your eligibility during intake.
A layoff is not the end of your story. Learn more about our Career Readiness & Entrepreneurship Employment Training, or apply online and let The Ayangbah Foundation help you take the next step in San Bernardino.