Project HIRE
Partnering with the Department of Human Services to give individuals receiving TANF benefits an opportunity to to receive education, technical training, social skills development and employability assistance.
Helping Individuals Reach Employment
Project HIRE is a comprehensive work prep program that partners with the Department of Human Services to give individuals who receive TANF benefits (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) an opportunity to enroll in full-time, short-term, niche market or individualized skills training in addition to employment services. Project HIRE’s goal is to assist those students who desire to receive technical training/certifications at Tulsa Tech.
Project HIRE/Tulsa Tech graduates contribute to the overall growth and economic impact in the Tulsa metro area by obtaining employment with sustainable wages. Focus areas include but not limited to:
- Adult Basic Education
- Mentoring
- Career Planning
- Admissions Preparations
- Resource Assistance
- Job Readiness Skills
- Job Search Skills
- Life Skills
The Project HIRE team is devoted to meeting each student where they are on their journey toward self-sufficiency. Our team offers support to students and assists with Life Skills. The Project HIRE staff addresses self-esteem, conflict resolution, communication skills, time management, goal setting, organizing tips, and stress management. Not only do these sessions educate, but they also provide students with the opportunity to get acquainted with each other and develop friendships, creating a support group that makes navigating life more manageable.
Program requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED
- 18 years of age with a dependent child
- Currently receiving TANF benefits
For more information, please contact:
Project HIRE
Peoria Campus
3850 North Peoria Avenue
Tulsa, OK
918-828-2088 | Email
To receive vocational training through Project HIRE:
- Visit okdhslive.org
- Apply for TANF benefits (follow the links)
- Attend a staffing interview with TANF worker and Project HIRE Coordinator
- Complete two-week orientation program
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Project HIRE?
The primary goal of Project HIRE is to provide clients with the opportunity to receive education, technical training, social skills development and employability assistance in order to prepare them for stable and financially secure employment. Long-term employment will allow them to break free from government aid and become valuable resources within the community.
How to apply for Project HIRE?
Visit okdhslive.org and apply for TANF benefits. Once assigned a DHS TANF caseworker, you will attend a staffing interview with a Project HIRE staff member. When you start the HIRE program, you will have to complete a probation period of two-weeks. Once the probation period expires, you will be officially in the Project HIRE program.
Do I qualify for Project HIRE?
If you are receiving TANF benefits and are 18 years or older, you will qualify for the Project HIRE program. Additionally, you need to commit 32 hours weekly (8:00 am – 3:00 pm, Monday – Friday) with our program. Dependable childcare, transportation and attendance is required.
What is TANF?
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a federally-funded program for children deprived of support because of a parent’s death, incapacity, absence or unemployment. To be a recipient of TANF you must: have responsibility for a minor child living in the home, meet income standard(s), have a Social Security number for all members included in TANF benefit, and agree to cooperate with Child Support Services. The purpose of this federal program is to provide temporary support in meeting basic needs, training leading to employment, employment services and child care assistance for qualified families with children.
What is the cost for Project HIRE?
There is no cost for the Project HIRE program. In addition to being free, Project HIRE will cover educational expenses incurred while in the HIRE program.
What resources does Project HIRE offer?
Assistance is available for tuition, books, course fees, utilities, transportation cost and repairs, certification/licensure fees, school tools and supplies, roadside assistance, living assistance, attire and uniforms, technology needs, resume building, job search, and much more.
What are the expectations of Project HIRE?
Expectations of participating in Project HIRE are attending class daily, choosing a career path that students will commit to completing and securing employment in the field of study.
I receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, do I qualify?
No. SNAP benefits alone do not qualify an individual for Project HIRE. You must be receiving TANF benefits.
Am I a good candidate for Project HIRE?
Many students who complete the Project HIRE program are committed to program completion, have a good attendance record, demonstrate professionalism, and are eager to learn. Students who are ready to further their education and will dedicate time to manage responsibilities are good candidates.
What if I have criminal history?
Students who are eligible for Project HIRE and have criminal history have successfully completed a Tech program. However, the Tulsa Tech review committee determines eligibility for Tulsa Tech programs.
Who will assist me on this journey?
Project HIRE Coordinator, Instructor/Employment Specialist, Office Support Specialist, a DHS TANF Caseworker, and the student’s Technical Program Instructor will support students in the program. In addition, students are encouraged to develop a support system outs ide program support to minimize barriers during program participation.