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1. What is a FAQ?

A FAQ is a Frequently Asked Question by parents regarding child care services, procedures, and qualifications.

2. What is child care?

Child care is supervision administered to a child during part of a 24-hour period, while a parent is working, training, or in school. Care is provided at a facility, day home, in the child’s own home, or the home of a relative. Services may include recreational and developmental activities and meals as appropriate.

3. What are Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas’ Child Care Services (CCS) office locations, hours of operation, and phone number?

CCS offices are located at:
500 Chestnut Ste. 1100

Abilene, TX 79602

Offices are open 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. You can also reach the CCS offices by phone at (325) 795-4200 or (800) 542-4045.

4. Who qualifies for child care assistance?

Any resident of our 19-county Workforce Development Area, who is working or participating in an education / training program, may qualify for assistance. To receive financial assistance for child care, your family must also meet Workforce Solutions income guidelines.

5. What are the 19 counties served by Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas?

Workforce Solutions serves residents of the following counties:

• Brown


• Callahan


• Coleman


• Comanche


• Eastland


• Fisher


• Haskell


• Jones


• Kent


• Knox


• Mitchell


• Nolan


• Runnels


• Scurry


• Shackelford


• Stephens


• Stonewall


• Taylor


• Throckmorton

6. Is there an age limit for children receiving financial aid for child care?

Infants and children up to age 13 are eligible for child care services. Children over the age of 13 who are physically or mentally incapable of taking care of themselves may also be eligible for services.

7. Is funding available for child care?

Funding may be immediately available to a parents who:

• Are Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly Food Stamp) Employment and Training participants


• Are Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) / Choices eligible 


• Are transitioning from TANF / Choices to work 


• Have applied for TANF benefits

Please contact us to help determine if you qualify for immediate assistance with child care.

If funding is not immediately available, you may be placed on the waiting list for financial assistance.

8. What is TANF?

TANF stands for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. This provides financial and medical assistance on a monthly basis to families with dependent children.

9. What is SSI?

SSI stands for Supplemental Security Income. This is a financial payment administered by the Social Security Administration for the aged, blind, or disabled.

10. What are Workforce Solutions family income guidelines?

Find out if you may qualify for assistance for child care by visiting the Are You Eligible? page on this website.

11. What is a family?

Family members include one or more of the following:

• Parent(s) - An adult responsible for the care and supervision of the child, identified as the child’s natural parent, adoptive parent, stepparent, or legal guardian


• Caretaker(s) - An adult who performs all parental functions for a child including the provision of food, clothing, shelter, and supervision


• Child - A person who is under 18 years of age

12. Whose income should I report to Workforce Solutions?

You should report the gross monthly income before deductions for all working family members. Wages or salary may include armed forces pay (some payments made to children of Vietnam veterans and some subsidies made to military personnel are excluded) commissions, tips, piece-rate payments, and cash bonuses earned. Overtime pay is estimated based on the person’s history of receiving this pay.

A family’s income includes:

• Child support 


• Court settlements or judgments


• Income from estate and trust funds 


• Net income from self-employment 


• Pensions, annuities, life insurance, and retirement income 


• Public assistance payments 


• Rental income 


• Spousal maintenance or alimony 


• Taxable capital gains, dividends, and interest 


• Total gross earnings 


• Unemployment compensation 


• Workers' compensation income, death benefit payments, and other disability payments 

13. Who does Workforce Solutions report my personal information to?

Workforce Solutions does not give out any information on a parent or child.

14. Why does Workforce Solutions ask for ethnicity of parents requesting assistance?

Workforce Solutions will ask for information on ethnicity for federal reporting. Workforce Solutions offers financial assistance to parents regardless to race, creed, or national origin.

15. Where can I report a suspected case of fraud?

If you have a suspected case of child care fraud, please call (888) 469-JOBS (5627). For TDD call Relay Texas at (800) 735-2989.

Actions regarding confirmed cases may include:

• Termination of child care service


• Reimbursement to Workforce Solutions / provider by the parent for child care services delivered 


• Other legal actions as appropriate

16. What can I do if I don’t agree with my child care assistance being terminated?

If you don’t agree with your child care assistance being terminated, you have the right to appeal the decision within 15 days of the receipt of the notice of termination. If you contact Workforce Solutions within 15 days of notification, child care services may be continued during the appeal process under certain circumstances.

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1. How do I get on the waiting list to receive assistance for child care?

Submit a wait list application online or by mail at:

CCS

500 Chestnut Street.

Suite 1100

Abilene, TX 79602

You will be notified when funds become available.

For more information, please view

How to Apply.

2. Do you serve children with disabilities?

Children with disabilities or children who require assistance to perform tasks that are within the typical chronological range of development are welcomed. Workforce Solutions offers special assistance to parents and providers in caring for a child with disabilities.

3. What types of proof do I need to verify my actual income?

Workforce Solutions accepts proof of currently earned income through documents such as check stubs, employment verification letters, wage reports submitted by theTexas Department of Human Services, or forms submitted to the Internal Revenue Service.

4. Will I have to pay a fee for child care assistance?

You may be asked to pay a portion of the cost, which will be based on the family’s gross income. Parents receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) have no fee for child care.

5. How is the parent's portion of the parent fee calculated?

Parent's fees are determined by calculating 9% of the household's total gross monthly income for one child, and 11% for two or more children. Parent's receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TAN) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) do not pay a parent fee. Percentages increase 1% each year a family is on the program, topping out at 11% for one child, and 13% for two or more children.

6. When should I pay the parent fee?

You should always pay your child care provider in advance of services. After Workforce Solutions portion of the child care payment is authorized by Workforce Solutions, you should immediately make payment arrangements with your provider.

Always get a receipt from the provider that includes the date, amount, and the person you paid.

7. How can I receive a reduction in my fee?

You may be eligible for a reduction in your parent fee if:

• All children are attending the provider part time


• All children in the Child Care Services (CCS) child care attend after school programs


• Your household has seven or more members 

8. What happens if I don't pay my parent fee?

Your child care assistance will be terminated by Workforce Solutions if your parent fee is not paid to your child care provider on time.

9. Who should I call if I don't receive my application forms from Workforce Solutions?

If you do not receive your forms within five working days from talking to us, notify the Workforce Solutions Child Care Services (CCS) staff immediately.

10. What would happen if my forms were late or I don't return the forms to Workforce Solutions?

If your child care forms were late or not returned, your child care services will be terminated. You will be given 15 days to make other child care arrangements.

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1. What is Workforce Solutions - Parent Agreement?

When reviewing family eligibility, the parent will need to provide additional information. For each child, written documentation must be submitted to show that the parent:

• Cooperated with the Attorney General’s office to establish paternity when necessary 


• Filed for child support 


• Enrolled every child in the family younger than eighteen in school 


• Has given assurance to Workforce Solutions that she or he has not used, sold, or possessed any controlled substances, nor abused alcohol

The parent / caretaker is responsible for making sure that required documents are received within specific time frames. Always confirm and document dates forms are due, or time frames to contact Workforce Solutions.

2. What are the Child Support Requirements?

Parents participating in Workforce Solutions child care may be required to submit documents which establish paternity for a child. Parents can visit the Office of Attorney General or contact them at (800) 252-8014, or visit the Office of Attorney General.

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1. What is a Relative Child Care Provider?

Parents can make child care arrangements on their own with a relative of the child. This is called Relative Child Care.

Family members that may be eligible as a Relative Provider include the child’s great-grandparent, grandparent, aunt / uncle, or sibling. All Relative Child Care Providers must be at least 18 years of age. Workforce Solutions will approve the eligibility of all Relative Child care Providers. Payments will only be made after being properly authorized by Workforce Solutions.

2. Does Workforce Solutions employ Relative Child Care Providers?

Relative Child Care Providers are not employed by Workforce Solutions and are not eligible for any benefits with Workforce Solutions. The child care arrangement is an agreement between the parent and the Relative Child Care Provider.

3. How much will my Relative Child Care Provider get paid for keeping my child?

Workforce Solutions has a maximum amount of payment, which can be reimbursed to a Relative Provider up to the maximum rates established for that specific age group and type care.

4. What documents will you need from my Relative Child Care Provider?

Your Relative Child Care Provider will be asked to:

• Review and sign a Relative Provider Rate Schedule 


• Complete forms for the IRS (W-9) 


• Submit copies of picture identification and the provider's Social Security card

All documents must be submitted before Relative Child Care Providers are eligible for payment.

5. Who do I talk to about the Relative Child Care Provider billing process and/or forms?

Your Relative Child Care Provider is assigned a finance representative at the Workforce Solutions Child Care Services (CCS) office. If your provider has not received a Service Delivery Summary (Form 2455-A) by the end of the month, and your service has already been approved, please contact CCS and ask to speak to the Finance Department.

6. Who do I call regarding payment for my Relative Child Care Provider?

Call the Workforce Solutions Child Care Services (CCS) office at (325) 795-4200 or (800) 542-4045 and ask to speak to the Finance Department.

7. What do relative child care providers have to submit for billing?

Relative child care providers should submit a completed and signed Service Delivery Summary Report (Form 2455-A) for services rendered. Relative providers may bill once monthly, and billing forms are due into the Child Care Services (CCS) office no later than the eighth calendar day of the following month.

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1. How do I get on the waiting list to receive assistance for child care?

To get on the waiting list for child care assistance, you can complete an online application or contact us and an application will be mailed to you.

2. What should I do to stay on the waiting list for assistance with child care?

You should call every 90 days to ensure your name stays on the waiting list.

3. How will I know when funding becomes available for child care?

Workforce Solutions will notify you by mail when funding becomes available for child care. It is important that you report a change in address promptly.

4. When will I get placed and how long is the waiting list?

If you are currently on the waiting list for child care, you will be notified when funding becomes available. Placement from the waiting list depends on available funds, funding levels, and your place on the wait list.

Assistance will be provided on a first come, first served basis.

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1. Submitting Your Video

Q: What format should the video be submitted in?

• Videos must be submitted in a .wmv, .mov, .mpg, or .mpeg format.

Q: Can a professional video production company create our video?

•  No, students are encouraged to explore video creation and produce their own videos.

Q: When do entries have to be submitted?

•  Entries are due by 4 p.m. on Friday, March 10, 2023.

Q: Where do I submit the video file(s)?

• Please submit videos through our website submission form. If the file size is larger than 20 MB you will be prompted to select an alternative submission method.

Q: What will be done with the videos after the contest? 

• Videos will be shared on Workforce's social media profiles, website, and through other marketing initiatives. They will also be used for CTE Month (February) and be made available to educators, parents, and students. Submitted videos will be considered the exclusive property of Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas.

Q: Do I need media releases for students participating in the contest?

• Yes, please ensure that video participants have releases filed with the school. The video submission form has a section that addresses the media releases and video rights once submitted. We have also provided our media release form if you would like to use it.

2. Participation

Q: What is the purpose of this video contest?

•  To promote awareness of career opportunities in the West Central Texas region and generate high-quality, local resources for use by students, parents, educators, Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas, participating businesses, industry associations, and the general public.

Q: Can students/teachers from a private school participate?

•  Students from a licensed/accredited school are able to participate. However, they will require a teacher sponsor.

Q: What grades are considered middle school and high school?

•  Middle school divisions will include 6th-8th grades and high school divisions will include 9th-12th grades.

Q: Can school-sponsored organizations submit videos?

• Yes! Formalized organizations such as Student Council, National Honor Society, FFA, etc. are able to participate. If you're not sure if your group is considered a "school-sponsored" group, please feel free to reach out with any questions.

3. Red Carpet Premiere

Q: If our video is selected as a finalist but we are not able to attend will we still receive the prize money?

• Yes!

Q: When and where will the winners be announced?

• At the Historic Paramount Theatre on April 11 at 10 a.m.

4. Video Content & Judging

Q: Who will be judging the videos?

• Local employers, representatives from sectors such as education, media, etc. and community members will serve as judges.

Q: What are the scoring criteria?

• Inclusion of required content:
  • introductory title frame
  • information regarding essential knowledge, skills, and abilities
  • career pathway information (high school, post-secondary, and employment opportunities)
  • local, regional, and/or state employers
  • video credits
  • fits within required length
• Overall quality
• Effective delivery of message
• Creativity
• Entertainment value

Q: What do you mean by "interview" an employer or person in the field of work? 

• One important part of career exploration is engaging with people in the field. We strongly encourage students to visit with employers/people in the field in order to learn more about the work environment, opportunities for advancement, required knowledge, skills, and abilities, etc. Interviews will earn extra points!

Q: Do you have any resources that our students can reference for information? 

• Yes! Check the bottom of the Careers in Action webpage for resources.

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1. What is the difference between grants and loans?

Grants typically consist of money that is not required to be paid back. Loans have to be repaid.

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1. What are the benefits of this program?

• Employers are not inundated with a written notice of application for unemployment benefits for each individual who files a claim


• The employer is considered an interested party to each claim filed


• Employers are given the opportunity to submit the claimant’s final week’s earnings (which may affect entitlement for that week)


• Employees establish claims more efficiently and easily and receive timely payment of benefits

If using this format, information must be provided no later than five days prior to the date of the layoff. For assistance contact the Workforce Boards Business Solutions or call the TWC Unemployment Office at (512) 463-2999.

2. When do the claims begin?

Each claim has a beginning date of Sunday. It may be the Sunday of the week in which the layoff occurs or the following Sunday, depending on the last day worked. Generally speaking, if your employee's last day to work was a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday the claim will likely begin on the prior Sunday. If your employee's last day to work was a Thursday or Friday, the claim will likely begin on the following Sunday.

Please discuss this with the mass layoff coordinator, who will give you the definite date. This may clear up any question that you might have with regard to column 25 (Claim Week Earnings) on your record that you submit.

3. When will our employees be likely to start receiving benefits?

It will be two to three weeks from the time that the claim is established. This same information is contained in a booklet that is sent to claimants, and it should be very helpful in answering many of the questions that your employees might have.

If your employees were paid wages instead of giving them advance notice of the layoff, they are not eligible for benefits during the period covered by these wages.

4. What if I cannot provide all of the information requested?

Please discuss this with the mass layoff coordinator, who will decide what action to take. Some of the fields (columns) are more crucial than others.

5. How should we send Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) the information once it is formatted?

TWC will accept a diskette or you may even send the spreadsheet that you have created via email.

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1. Can an employer have more than one plan?

Yes, there are no specific restrictions as to how many plans an employer can have within his/her organization as long as he/she meets the "unit" requirements.

2. When will the shared work plan begin?

The Commission shall approve or deny a shared work plan no later than 30 days after the plan is received. A shared work plan is effective on the date it is approved by the Commission. The plan expires on the last day of the 12th full calendar month after the effective date of the plan.

It is suggested that the employer request a starting date that will coincide with his payroll date to simplify the timekeeping procedures.

3. If an employer chooses shared work, must the employer use it for his/her entire business or company?

No. An employer can use shared work in one or more departments, shifts, or unit. The program gives an employer the flexibility to specify the affected areas.

4. If the employer's shared work plan expires but the employees are still working on a reduced work schedule, can the employees receive shared work benefits?

No. Shared work benefits are payable only while the employer's plan is in effect. However, the employees may be eligible for benefits under the regular unemployment insurance program.

5. What effect will shared work benefits have on an employer's unemployment insurance tax rate?

Benefits paid through the shared work plans are charged back against the employer's account for use in computing his/her general (experience) tax rate. Thus, shared work benefits affect the employer's tax rate in the same manner and to the same extent as other chargebacks of benefits.

6. Does the employer need to specify which employees will be included in the shared work program?

Yes. The employer's plan must include the names and Social Security numbers of all participating employees so that they can be paid.

7. How are employees paid shared work benefits?

The employer completes a biweekly shared work continued claim list of participating employees so that they can be paid. An interested employer submits to the Commission a Shared Work Plan Application and Employee Participant List by mail or fax. If the plan is approved, workers who qualify for unemployment benefits will receive both wages and Shared Work benefits. The workers will receive the percentage of their regular benefits that matches the percentage of reduction in the employer's plan.

8. Does an employee, who is participating in the shared work program serve a weeklong waiting period?

While participating in the shared work program, an employee does not serve a weeklong waiting period. If employees, for any reason, are no longer participants in the shared work program and they file for regular unemployment, they will have to serve the weeklong waiting period unless they have been paid three times their weekly benefit amount while participating in the shared work program.

9. Can an employer put individuals or groups back to work full-time for a week or two and then continue the plan?

Yes, putting individuals or groups back to work full-time for a week or more is even encouraged. The plan is structured such that there would be no real inconvenience in returning to it.

10. Can an employer lay off some workers who were originally in the plan and still keep the remainder in the plan?

Yes, as long as requirements for an approved plan are being met.

11. Can the percentages of reduced hours be different for different individuals?

Yes, as long as the reduction is between 10-40% each week, depending on the specifications of the plan.

12. Can employees who normally work overtime receive shared work benefits for a reduction in their overtime hours?

No. Shared Work benefits can only be paid for wages lost because of a reduction in the employee's normal full-time hours. Normal full-time hours may not exceed 40 hours.

13. Can an employer use the shared work program for part-time workers?

No, only full-time employees whose hours have been reduced may participate in the program.

14. Do shared work employers have to report earnings from an employee's outside part-time job?

No. A shared work employer does not have to report any wages their employees may earn from an outside part-time employment. However, once an individual files under the regular unemployment insurance program, that individual is required to report any earnings (full-time or part-time) on their claim certification.

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1. How does Work-Based Learning help students?

A significant body of research has proven that students who have opportunities to apply what they are learning in the classroom to work settings can be beneficial. In addition to reporting improvements in competency, students who participate in WBL are more likely to earn higher wages in their future employment. 

More recent research underscores the importance of the social capital young learners developed through work-based learning experiences, and just how valuable that can be for lifelong prospects. The supervisors, mentors, and colleagues that young workers engage with during a WBL experience can be transformational, especially during an era of “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know.” 

2. How does Work-Based Learning help employers?

Employers who partner to provide Work-based learning opportunities reap rewards, especially during tight labor markets. In addition to reporting increased innovation and improved workplace diversity (which in itself results in higher profit margins), more than 80 percent of employers that supported job-shadowing, internships, and apprenticeships reported increased productivity and output. Work-based learning is also a proven talent pipeline development strategy, with many students becoming long-term employees who are trained with the precise skills, knowledge, and capacities employers need

3. How much does a Work-Based Learning experience cost?

The Work-Based Learning program encourages paid internship experiences, enabling students to gain high-quality work-based experiences while not restricting participation to those who can afford to work without compensation. Texas minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. While employers can set their own rates, employer partners are encouraged to pay a competitive wage. The Texas Workforce Commission notes that employers report paying between $12-$15 per hour for internships, and more in some in-demand fields. 

For roles that require tools and equipment or uniforms, employers may not deduct expenses for these materials to the extent that it would reduce the employee’s pay below minimum wage. Where appropriate, employers should consider providing necessary work tools and equipment directly. Where this is not possible, either because employers cannot accommodate additional expenses or because student workers cannot absorb additional costs, the employer should connect with Workforce Solutions. The Workforce Solutions team may be able to identify other funding sources to cover tools, materials, and uniforms for student workers.

4. Can I employ someone under the age of 18?

Yes. With the exception of a few occupations, 16 and 17-year-olds are able to work in many different types of jobs. The students participating in WBL experiences supported through Workforce Solutions will have received some form of occupational training through their high school programming. Participants are also required to complete a Work Readiness workshop designed to ensure they understand their rights as workers and are prepared to succeed.

5. What are students under 18 not allowed to do?

Students age 16-17 are restricted from working in particular occupations that have been deemed hazardous, including manufacturing of explosives, driver, coal mine occupations, logging and other occupations. For certain occupations, including woodworking, metal forming, saw use, roofing, and excavation jobs, student learners may be employed under a written agreement.

6. How many hours can student employees work?

Typically, a student will be able to work 50-150 hours over 10-15 weeks, depending on the employer’s needs and the student’s academic and extracurricular obligations. During summer months, students may be able to work full-time.

7. As an employer, am I obligated to keep a student employee on even if it’s not working out?

In all employment relationships, there is the possibility that the employer or the employee wishes to end the arrangement. In the event the employer decides that the participant must be released prior to the end of the defined work-based learning experience, the employer is responsible for informing both the high school and Workforce Solutions. The decision to terminate the participant’s employment is entirely at the discretion of the employer for cause or convenience. The work-based learning participant may also voluntarily resign. In all cases, partners recognize that terminating the relationship may affect the participant’s high school graduation plan.  

In the event the termination is for cause, it is understood that: 

• The employee has received clear guidance and has understanding (by way of the employee handbook and onboarding activities) of the requirements of the position, including standards of conduct and progressive discipline policies of the employer. 
  
  
• The employer will inform the participant prior to termination of the reason for termination and provide a copy to the education partner and Workforce Solutions. 
   
• All customary and normal employer efforts to maintain the employment of the student worker will be made in the same manner the employer affords any other employee. 

If the employee is terminated for convenience, it is understood that: 

• The employer will communicate with the education partner and Workforce Solutions at the earliest opportunity prior to termination to enable alternative arrangements.  

If the employee voluntarily resigns, it is understood that: 

• The employer will communicate with the high school and Workforce Solutions when notified by the employee of their intent to resign, or within three working days after the student fails to report to work.

8. Are student employees able to be hired for permanent positions?

In positive situations, employers may wish to end their agreement to bring a student on as a full-time hire. While attention should be paid to ensuring the student can continue with their education and complete the credential aligned with the work-based learning experience, WBL-to-hire is a sign of a strong program. The employer should notify Workforce Solutions of their plans to make an offer and follow their standard hiring procedures. 

9. What kind of data will Workforce Solutions collect about the program?

To assess the workforce and social outcomes of the program, as well as to ensure that students from all backgrounds are able to participate, Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas will work with partner high schools and employers to collect the following information: 

• Student Name, Age, Grade and Demographics
• Student High School
• Student Interview and Job Offer outcomes
• Employer Name
• Position Description
• Hourly wage 
• Experience duration
• Learning outcomes assessment
• Credits earned

Workforce Solutions will also conduct periodic check-ins with the student and employer to assess satisfaction and quality, and to continuously improve the program. 

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1. How much is a booth space?

A 10'x10' booth space can be purchased for $50. Additional booth spaces are available for $25 each, but some years we have a sponsor to help with the cost. So be sure to check with us!

2. What comes with my booth space?

The 10'x10' space comes with 1 table, 2 chairs, electricity, free WiFi, continental breakfast, and 2 lunch tickets.

3. Is there a discount for nonprofits?

Yes! Nonprofits can purchase their booth space at half price.

4. Can I pay with a credit card?

Yes! We use PayPal to securely process credit card transactions online. After the registration form is complete, you will have the option of paying via PayPal on the confirmation page.

5. Can I pay by check?

Yes! Checks for booth fees and extra lunch tickets can be made out and sent to us at the address below:

Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas

ATTN: WOW Youth Expo

500 Chestnut, Suite 1200

Abilene, TX 79602

6. Where is the event held?

The WOW Youth Expo is at the Abilene Convention Center, 1100 N 6th Street, Abilene, TX 79601

7. How long is the event?

The expo portion of the event begins at 10am and ends at 2pm. Get there early for free continental breakfast!

8. Will lunch be provided?

Yes! Booth fees include 2 free lunch tickets. If a business or organization needs more than 2 tickets for their representatives, they can be purchased for $10 each prior to the event.

9. What should I bring to the event?

The key to attracting youth to your booth is to have ENGAGING hands-on materials, activities, games, competitions, etc. The more real-world engagement your booth has, the more students will interact. Also, sending representatives who students can relate to is beneficial.

10. When is set-up for the event?

Exhibitors can bring in equipment and materials from 3-5pm the day before, or from 8-10am the day of. We just ask that you have your booth ready by 10am the morning of the event for students to enter the expo area at 10:15am.

11. Can I bring large equipment to display at the event?

We hope you will! Small vehicles, boats, etc. can fit in the exhibit hall. There is also outdoor exhibit space for large vehicles, cranes, machinery, trailers, etc.

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1. What is the mock interview portion of the event?

Mock interviews are offered to junior and senior students, and provide the opportunity to practice an important skill in a real world setting with area professionals. This portion of the event will be "free flowing". As students check-in they will be paired with an interviewer. If all interviewers are matched then students will wait until an interviewer is available.

2. When will it start?

Interviews will begin at 10:20am and go until around 1:50pm. Juniors and seniors are encouraged to participate in an interview once released from the keynote, before they start visiting with the exhibitors.

3. How long will the interviews last?

Individual interviews will last approximately 20 minutes. They may be shorter or longer depending on how prepared the student is and how many questions the interviewer has.

4. Where will mock interviews be conducted?

Mock interviews will be held in a separate conference room of the Convention Center, away from exhibitor activities. The room will be setup with rows of tables and chairs for interviewers and interviewees. The exact room location will be sent prior to the event, and clearly marked the day-of!

5. What types of questions will be asked?

Standard questions encountered in an interview for a real world job. Interviewers will be provided a list of sample questions for the interview as well as a feedback form; however, the interviewer will ultimately determine what questions he/she asks and the feedback provided.

6. Do I need any special experience to be an Interviewer?

Nope, just an interest in helping our youth prepare for their future!

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1. What is the World of Work (WOW) Youth Expo?

The WOW Youth Expo features a keynote speaker and 100+ engaging exhibitors from business/industry, post-secondary schools, and regional organizations, as well as mock interviews for juniors and seniors. This event provides students a unique opportunity to engage with exhibitors from a variety of career clusters, immerse themselves in the world of work, and perhaps help them identify or verify their career pathway!

2. What if I'm a parent who wishes to attend?

Parents are encouraged to visit the event anytime between 10am and 2pm. Pre-event registration for parents is not required but highly encouraged. If you would like to register, we would like you to do so at least a week prior to the event so we have enough materials prepared!

3. Is there a cost to attend?

Nope! The WOW Youth Expo is free for schools, students, and parents to participate!

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1. What is the World of Work (WOW) Youth Expo?

The WOW Youth Expo features a keynote speaker and 100+ engaging exhibitors from business/industry, post-secondary schools, and regional organizations, as well as mock interviews for juniors and seniors. This event provides students a unique opportunity to engage with exhibitors from a variety of career clusters, immerse themselves in the world of work, and perhaps help them identify or verify their career pathway!

2. What grades can attend the WOW Youth Expo?

The event is for students in 8th-12th grade.

3. Is there a cost to attend?

Nope! The WOW Youth Expo is free for schools, students, and parents to participate!

4. Can we bring multiple groups of students?

Yes! There is a place on the registration form for you to tell us if there are multiple groups attending at different start times from your campus.

5. What do the different start times mean?

The time you select is the time your school starts the event experience. When students arrive at WOW, they immediately go in to the keynote address before visiting with exhibitors and conducting mock interviews. The same keynote is scheduled three times to "kickoff" the event for that group of participating students. Having three different start times allows us to stagger students throughout the duration of the event so everybody has a great experience!

6. How early should we arrive before our start time?

Schools are welcome to arrive beginning 30 minutes prior to their designated start time. The group prior may still be in he keynote though, so students will have space to wait outside the auditorium until the doors open for their session. We suggest that 10-15 minutes early is a good window.

7. What if we have parents who wish to attend?

Parents are encouraged to visit the event anytime between 10am and 2pm. Pre-event registration for parents is not required but highly encouraged. If they would like to register, they need to do so at least a week in advance so we have enough materials prepared! 

8. How can we prepare our students for the event?

We have a student worksheet designed specifically to help students get ready beforehand and actively engage with exhibitors on-site. Just let us know how many worksheets you need and we’ll mail them to your school!

9. Can we showcase a program or group at the event?

Absolutely! We love having students participate as exhibitors to highlight programs, groups, or initiatives at their school. Just let us know on the registration form that you're interested!

10. Will lunch be provided?

No, but there is space to accommodate schools wishing to provide lunch to their students on-site before returning to their campus. Just let us know on the registration form if you'll need space for your students to eat!

11. My school only has a couple of students who are able to attend. Can they register on their own?

Yes! There is no minimum (or maximum) amount of students required to attend WOW.

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1. Why should I be a sponsor?

The benefits are endless! Being a WOW sponsor means your organization is investing in our future workforce. It also: creates interest in your products and services, promotes your organization regionally, and provides name recognition to a highly desirable audience.

2. What will my sponsorship include?

It depends on the level, but all sponsorships will include booth space and exposure in print and electronic media for an entire year. Check out our sponsorship opportunities for details.

3. What if I can't give at one of the advertised levels?

Not a problem! We have customized packages to meet your needs. Just email us at [email protected] or call 325-795-4327.