Finding work often requires more than searching job listings. People may need help identifying career options, building skills, preparing applications, earning credentials, or connecting with employers.
Open Door Peace helps you find official workforce and training resources that can support the next step.
American Job Centers
American Job Centers (AJCs) provide employment and training assistance in communities across the United States.
Services can include:
- Job-search assistance
- Career counseling
- Training referrals
- Resume and application help
- Job listings
- Skills assessments
- Workshops
- Access to computers and employment resources
Services vary by location, and some programs have eligibility requirements. The U.S. Department of Labor coordinates the national American Job Center network.
Start here:
Find an American Job Center
Workforce Training Programs
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) supports employment and training programs for adults, dislocated workers, young people, and certain populations facing barriers to employment.
Depending on local programs and eligibility, assistance may include:
- Career planning
- Classroom training
- Work-based learning
- Job-search preparation
- Skills development
- Connections to employers
- Support for people changing careers or returning to work
WIOA programs are delivered locally through workforce systems and American Job Centers.
Start here:
Contact your local American Job Center and ask what training programs are available in your area.
Registered Apprenticeships
A Registered Apprenticeship combines paid employment with structured training.
Participants may receive:
- Paid work experience
- On-the-job learning
- Classroom instruction
- Progressive wage increases
- An industry-recognized credential
Apprenticeship opportunities are offered by employers or program sponsors, and applicants apply directly to the participating employer or sponsor.
Start here:
Search apprenticeship opportunities
Support for Young People
Young people may have access to workforce-development programs that combine education, employment preparation, work experience, and occupational training.
The federal WIOA Youth Program serves eligible youth ages 14–24 who face barriers to education, training, or employment. Local services are generally delivered through workforce organizations and American Job Centers.
Start here:
Ask your local American Job Center about youth employment and training programs.
Returning to Work or Changing Careers
If you have been laid off, are returning to employment after a long absence, or need a new career because your previous work is no longer available, an American Job Center can help you explore training and employment options.
Some programs specifically serve dislocated workers or people facing barriers to employment. Available services depend on local programs and individual eligibility.
Before Enrolling in Training
Before paying for a school, certificate program, or training course, consider asking:
- What credential will I receive?
- Is the credential recognized by employers?
- What is the total cost?
- Is financial assistance available?
- How long will training take?
- What jobs do graduates typically obtain?
- Does the program promise employment or merely provide training?
- Can an American Job Center help pay for or recommend this training?
Be cautious with programs that guarantee a job, demand immediate payment, or pressure you to borrow money before you understand the terms.
Need Help Getting Started?
A local American Job Center is usually the best first stop for public employment and workforce-training assistance.
You can ask about:
- Training opportunities
- Career counseling
- Apprenticeships
- Resume support
- Job-search workshops
- Programs for youth, veterans, people with disabilities, older workers, and others facing employment barriers
Important
Open Door Peace provides general information and navigation to employment and training resources.
We do not guarantee employment, admission to a training program, funding, wages, or eligibility for government workforce services.
Program availability and requirements vary by state and locality. Always confirm current information with the agency, school, employer, or workforce program providing the service.