What is JTPA?

The federal Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) is a federal law that authorizes and funds a number of employment and training programs in California. JTPA's primary purpose is to establish programs to provide job training services for economically disadvantaged adults and youth, dislocated workers and others who face significant employment barriers. These programs help prepare individuals in California for participation in the state's workforce, increasing their employment and earnings potential, improving their educational and occupational skills and reducing their dependency on welfare.

Who Administers JTPA?

The Governor is responsible for the implementation and operation of JTPA. In California, the Family Economic Security Act (FESA) designated the Employment Development Department (EDD) as the agency responsible for administering the program. EDD administers JTPA under the policy guidance of the State Job Training Coordinating Council (SJTCC). The SJTCC is the Governor's advisory body and assists the Governor in planning, coordinating and monitoring the provision of programs and services under the JTPA and the FESA. EDD receives JTPA funds and distributes these funds to Service Delivery Areas (SDA)s.

SDAs are comprised of units of local government and are designated by the Governor based on population and commonality of labor market. All areas of the state are included within California's 52 SDAs. Each SDA is administered through a partnership between the local elected officials and a Private Industry Council (PIC). The PIC, comprised of representatives from private sector businesses, organized labor, community based organizations, local government agencies and local education agencies, provides policy guidance and oversees the job training activities within the SDA.

In Pasadena, Career Services is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the JTPA program within the six-cities: Arcadia, Duarte, Monrovia, Pasadena, Sierra Madre, and South Pasadena. With the advice from the FPICs,  Foothill One-Stop Client Center develops locally designed strategies and plans for providing JTPA training and services.