Commonly Asked Questions
Here are some answers to the questions prospective BEP operators most
frequently ask about the Wisconsin Business Enterprise Program (BEP). For general questions about the BEP and its operators, also check our FAQ page
under Resources.
- How do I get into training?
- On what will I be evaluated?
- Where is the training and how long is it?
- How is the classroom training structured?
- How is the OJT (on-the-job training) structured?
- Once I complete training, what kinds of facilities will I be
qualified to manage?
- Once I am licensed, how quickly can I expect to go to work?
- What kind of earnings can I expect from my first assignment?
- What are the promotional opportunities?
- Will I be an employee of BEP?
- Are there any fringe benefits available?
- Once I am assigned to a facility, what are my financial obligations
to BEP?
- As an operator, do I make all decisions related to the day-to-day
operations of my facility?
- Do I have any obligations to state agencies, other than BEP?
- What assistance might be available from my VR counselor once I enter
BEP?
- Once I accept a BEP assignment, will my VR case be closed?
- Want to know more?
You can only be referred for training by a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
counselor who feels that you have potential to be successful as a BEP
operator. The counselor must first determine that you are eligible
for VR services and then you undergo an evaluation to determine whether or
not you have the basic skills to be successful. Your counselor will
tell you where you can be evaluated and you will choose the location.
If the evaluation is favorable, you will then be asked to submit in
writing your reasons for wanting to be a BEP operator and you will be
interviewed by the BEP Manager.
Return to top
You will be evaluated in several areas that measure the skills
necessary to be a successful BEP operator. This would include
academic achievements such as mathematics and skills associated with
business. Your independent living skills will also be evaluated.
This includes your ability to travel independently, your verbal
communication skills, adaptive kitchen skills, home management skills, and
much more. You may also be asked to take tests that measure general
aptitude and interests.
Return to top
You must successfully complete 8-12 weeks of formal classroom training
and an additional 8 weeks of on-the-job training (OJT) in an existing
facility under the supervision of a licensed BEP operator. The OJT
training can generally be arranged in your local area.
Return to top
This portion of the training is much like a college course. You
must complete each training module with a minimum score of 75 to advance
in the class. Training modules include Administration and Legal
Authority, Business Management Skills, Financial Analysis and Resource
Control, Health and Sanitation, Food Service Management, Product Control,
and Vending.
Return to top
You will be assigned to a vending facility and work under the close
supervision of one of our licensed operators. Every effort is made
to do this portion of your training in your hometown or in the nearest
urban area. Generally, you will work for 4 weeks in an all-vending
operation and an additional 4 weeks in a food prep or over-the-counter
operation.
Return to top
You will be certified to operate vending machines and over-the-counter
operations. You may choose to get your certification in on-site food
prep facilities by completing 2-3 weeks of additional training upon
successful completion of the other entry-level training modules.
Return to top
This depends on a number of factors since there is no way to predict
when or where vacancies will occur. Most operators can usually
receive their initial assignment within weeks of completing their
training. A person's chances of being placed are greatly enhanced if
he or she is willing to relocate. There are often longer delays for
those individuals who have very restricted geographical preferences.
Return to top
BEP offers outstanding earning potential for operators who want to work
hard. However, as in most businesses, you cannot expect to start out
at the top. On average, BEP operators earn more than other workers
in the state. You will probably have to start in one of the lower
end facilities and work your way up, although this is not necessarily true
if you are willing to relocate and accept one of our more demanding
facilities.
Return to top
BEP's promotion policy is based on a combination of BEP experience and
record of performance. Your ability to move into the higher income
facilities will be based in large part on your performance. BEP
conducts interviews for vacant facilities so your ability to interview
effectively can also be a key to your upward mobility.
Return to top
No you will be self-employed, just as any other entrepreneur in the
private sector who operates a small business.
Return to top
BEP offers group medical insurance to all operators and their
dependents. Participation is optional. The operator must pay
one-third of the cost of the premiums.
Return to top
You will pay 13% of your net income to BEP. You will be required
to file a monthly financial report and pay your fees at the same time.
Return to top
Yes. You make decisions about what products to buy and from what
suppliers. You set your selling prices. You make all decisions
regarding hiring and/or firing of employees. It is your business and
you are in charge as long as you abide by BEP regulations and policies.
Return to top
Yes. You must pay all taxes just like any other business person
and ensure that you meet all state health regulations.
Return to top
Depending upon your economic circumstances, a wide array of services
may still be available to you. For example, if you need orientation
and mobility services to orient you to your new facility, such services
can be arranged. If you need assistance with relocation expenses,
your VR counselor may be able to assist. Likewise, if you need some
petty cash for your cash drawer or bill changers on your first day of
business, your VR counselor may be able to help. In reality, all VR
services remain available to you until your case is closed if such
services are required for you to be successful.
Return to top
After you have been on the job for 90 days and there is no indication
that additional services are required, your case will be closed with your
consent. You can always reapply for services if your circumstances
change.
Return to top
If you would like to become a Wisconsin BEP operator, please contact us
today. Call BEP Manager, Kent
Walser, at 608-268-2710 or email him at
Kent.Walser@rsvw.org.
Return to top
Last Revised:
09/29/05.
