Q: What training classes does the Goodwill Career & Training Academy (GCTA) offer?
A: We currently offer the following courses, but new classes are added often:
Healthcare
Professional & Business
Skilled Trades
Technology
Medical Assistant
Microsoft Office Specialist and Business Communications
Building Maintenance Technician
Python Programming
Nursing Assistant
Commercial Vehicle Operator
Phlebotomy
Core Construction
Electrical Helper
Q: How
long are the classes? What days do they meet?
A: GCTA classes range from 4 weeks to 13 weeks, depending on the program and related exam for certification. For current class dates and times, please visit our class schedule.
Q: Can I take training courses at the GCTA even if I don’t live in Travis County?
A: Yes, but some scholarships
for students are restricted to supporting individuals living in Travis County. Please
reach out to the GCTA Team for information and assistance.
Q: Is there an age requirement to participate in GCTA courses?
A: Except for Commercial Vehicle
Operator (21+ for intrastate, 18+ for interstate) and Nursing Assistant (16+), there
is no age limit for training. However, you may require parental consent for
some courses. Please note that many programs require a high school diploma or
GED.
Q: Can I take more than one training course at the GCTA?
A: Yes, but you can only take
one training at a time; and you must successfully complete and attain
certification from the credentialing entity, and be in good standing to be
considered for a second training course. If you have previously taken training at
the GCTA and wish to take another course, please contact your Goodwill Career Case
Manager.
Q: Does each GCTA training course provide an opportunity to earn a certification?
A: Yes. All GCTA training courses are designed to prepare you to take and pass an exam that leads to an industry-recognized credential. In some instances, the GCTA is able to administer the exam. In other instances, like Nursing Assistant and Medical Assistant, the certification exam is issued by a third party.
Q: What is the benefit of a certification?
A: A certification demonstrates
proficiency and knowledge, through examination, in a specific industry or
trade. This indicates to employers that you have the skills and talent needed
to be successful in a specific job.
Q: Are classes at the GCTA free?
A: We offer full tuition grants
to individuals who qualify. Please contact Goodwill Intake at 512.637.7580
for more information.
Q: What steps do I take if I need Goodwill funding/help paying for my tuition?
A: If you need financial assistance to help fund any education and training at Goodwill, please contact Goodwill Intake at 512.637.7580. The Intake Specialist will meet with you to discuss your training/employment goals and financial
needs.
Q: Does the GCTA accept FAFSA? (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
A: No.
Q: Does the GCTA accept payment plans?
A: The GCTA does accept payment
plans, but they are considered on a case by case basis. Please note that not
all courses are eligible for self-pay.
Q:What does the tuition cover?
A: Tuition covers all required materials for the class. This includes instruction, any classroom supplies or required textbooks, and costs related to certification.
Q: Will I need to purchase any supplies for class?
A: No. Everything you need for the class is provided by the GCTA and is covered in your tuition.
Q: What do I need to know before my intake appointment?
A: Here are some things to know and expect before your intake appointment:
Must
agree to Career Case Management and job search assistance
Must
be willing to complete C.A.T. Training (job-readiness boot camp)
Must
not have any active warrants or pending charges
Must
submit all required documents
Q: What documents do I need to bring with me to my intake appointment?
A: Please bring one item from each of the four categories below:
Identity
Authorization to Work
Proof of All Household Income for the Past 30 Days
Residence
Veteran Status (if applicable)
Government-Issued ID
Birth Certificate
Paycheck stub
Government-Issued ID (with current address)
DD-214 with Character of Service
Driver’s License
Social Security Card
Temporary Aid for Needy Families (TANF)
Lease Agreement
Military ID or Veteran ID
Passport
Permanent US Residency Identification Card (Greencard)
SSI or SSDI
Utility Bill
Statement of Service from VA
US Government Issued Authorization to Work
Unemployment, disability or worker’s compensation
Voter Registration Card
Alimony
Statement from landlord or social services agency that includes address
Pensions
Military Family Allotments
Q: Will the GCTA help me find a job after I receive my certification?
A: Yes, you will be provided with support from the Goodwill Team. There are many resources available, from interview preparation to job seeking and placement assistance.
Q: I will not be able to attend the first day of class. What should I do?
A: The first day of class is mandatory. If you think you may miss the first day (or any other day of training), please speak with GCTA Administration beforehand to excuse any planned absences.
Q: Do I have to attend orientation?
A: Yes. Orientation is mandatory and typically takes place 3 – 7 days prior to the first day of class. Orientation dates are listed on our class schedule.
Q: Where do classes take place?
A: With the exception of the Commercial Vehicle Operator course, all trainings are held in person at the Goodwill Career & Technical Academy located at 1015 Norwood Park Blvd., Austin, TX 78753.
The Commercial Vehicle Operator course rotates between a
North Location (Pflugerville) and a South Location (South Austin).