Whether you're looking to start a new career, upgrade your skills, or get back into the workforce, numerous free and low-cost job training and employment resources are available to help you succeed. This guide will connect you with programs that can transform your career prospects.
Workforce Development Programs
American Job Centers (One-Stop Career Centers)
American Job Centers provide comprehensive employment services in every community. These federally-funded centers offer job search assistance, career counseling, and access to training programs.
- Job search assistance
- Resume writing help
- Interview preparation
- Career assessments
- Skills training programs
- Apprenticeship connections
- Financial aid for training
- Unemployment insurance filing
WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) Programs
WIOA provides funding for job training and education programs for adults, dislocated workers, and youth. These programs can pay for tuition, books, and other training-related expenses.
Skills Training and Certification Programs
Community College Workforce Programs
Community colleges offer affordable, practical training programs designed to meet local employer needs. Many programs can be completed in less than two years.
Trade and Technical Schools
Trade schools provide hands-on training for skilled trades like plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, automotive repair, and healthcare support roles.
Online Training Platforms
Many free and low-cost online platforms offer professional development courses and certifications:
- Coursera (financial aid available)
- edX (free courses from universities)
- LinkedIn Learning (often free through libraries)
- Google Career Certificates
- Microsoft Learn
- Codecademy (programming skills)
Apprenticeship Programs
Apprenticeships combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They're available in many industries and typically lead to well-paying careers.
- • Construction trades
- • Manufacturing
- • Healthcare
- • Information technology
- • Transportation
- • Energy and utilities
- • Telecommunications
- • Hospitality
- • Finance
- • Cybersecurity
Specialized Employment Programs
Veterans Employment Programs
Veterans have access to specialized employment services including skills translation, federal hiring preferences, and veteran-specific job training programs.
Programs for People with Disabilities
Vocational rehabilitation services help people with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment. Services include job training, assistive technology, and workplace accommodations.
Reentry Programs for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals
Specialized programs help people with criminal backgrounds find employment through skills training, job placement assistance, and employer partnerships.
Programs for Older Workers (55+)
SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program) provides part-time employment and training for low-income individuals aged 55 and older.
Career Counseling and Support Services
Career Assessment and Planning
Professional career counselors can help you identify your strengths, interests, and career goals through assessments and one-on-one counseling.
Job Search Support
- Resume and cover letter writing assistance
- Interview preparation and practice
- Job search strategies and networking
- Online job application assistance
- Professional wardrobe programs
Financial Support for Training
- WIOA Individual Training Accounts (ITAs)
- Pell Grants for eligible programs
- Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)
- Employer-sponsored training programs
- Union training programs
- Nonprofit organization scholarships
Industry-Specific Training Programs
Healthcare
High-demand healthcare training programs include certified nursing assistant (CNA), medical assistant, pharmacy technician, and home health aide certifications.
Technology
IT training programs cover cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analysis, web development, and digital marketing.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing training includes CNC machining, welding, quality control, logistics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
How to Get Started
- Visit your local American Job Center: Get a comprehensive assessment of your skills and career goals
- Research training programs: Look into programs that match your interests and local job market demands
- Apply for funding: Explore all available funding sources for training programs
- Network: Connect with professionals in your field of interest
- Start training: Commit to your chosen program and take advantage of all support services
Success Tips
- Research job market demand: Choose training programs that lead to jobs with good prospects in your area.
- Take advantage of support services: Use career counseling, tutoring, and other support services available through training programs.
- Build your network: Connect with instructors, classmates, and industry professionals during your training.
- Consider stackable credentials: Look for programs that allow you to build skills progressively over time.
Investing in job training and skills development is one of the best ways to improve your career prospects and earning potential. With so many free and low-cost options available, there's never been a better time to upgrade your skills and pursue new opportunities.