The primary objective of the On-the-Job Supportive Services (OJTSS) is to increase the overall effectiveness of the State highway agencies' approved training programs by encouraging completion of training programs and seeking other ways to increase the training opportunities for minorities and women.

State Transportation Agencies are responsible for establishing procedures, subject to the availability of Surface Transportation and Bridge Funds under 23 U.S.C. 140(b) (Nondiscrimination), for the provision of supportive services in support of training programs approved under 23 CFR 230A (Equal Employment Opportunity on Federal and Federal-Aid Construction Contracts (Including Supportive Services)).

The Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) policy is to require full utilization of all available training and skill improvement opportunities to assure that increased participation of minority groups and disadvantaged persons and women in all phases of the highway construction industry. The FHWA also encourages State Departments of Transportation to utilize OJT supportive services funds to increase the effectiveness of approved on-the-job training programs conducted in connection with Federal-aid highway construction projects. This training is used to increase the participation of women and minorities in skilled and semi-skilled crafts.

Questions or comments? Please contact Ms. Linda J. Williams (202) 366-1604 or Ms. Hattie H. Brown (202) 366-1591, Office of Civil Rights, HCR-10.