The U.S. Department of Labor’s Job Corps program has launched a summer recruitment drive in California, offering immediate openings and free career training.
The program is open to young people ages 16 to 24 who hail from low-income households.
“Job Corps offers a path to apprenticeships and higher-paying careers in the nation’s fastest-growing industries,” said Rachel Torres, national director of Job Corps. “Our graduates fill a critical need for employers and the economy.”
There is a Job Corps campus in San Diego County, in Imperial Beach, and six others statewide: Inland Empire, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Jose and Treasure Island.
The skills training available includes advanced manufacturing, automotive and machine repair, construction, finance and business, health care, homeland security, hospitality, information technology, renewable resources and energy, retail sales and services and transportation.
Job Corps is free for those who meet the eligibility requirements, and students can apply and enroll at any time. The program also provides on-campus housing, meals, health care and job search assistance.
Applicants may qualify if they receive benefits such as SNAP, TANF or free or reduced school lunch, or if they have been homeless or spent time as a foster youth. Job Corps offers expedited enrollment for age-eligible young adults lacking shelter.
“For students, we are a path to careers, certifications and connections – all without student debt. For employers, we’re a possible solution to their workforce pipelines,” Torres said. “It’s a win-win for Californians.”
Job Corps recently launched a revamped national website, as well as new sites for every campus nationwide. Features include virtual tours, a 24/7 virtual assistant named Corey, and an interactive map allowing users to find a campus based on location, industry or a specific training area.
For more information, or to begin the enrollment process, visit jobcorps.gov or call 800-733-5627.