Job Training and Career Resources: Where to Start

Whether you are looking for your first job, coming back to work after time away, or ready for a change, help is available. Across the country, public workforce programs offer career advice, training information and job search support, often at no cost to you. This guide explains where to start and what each type of resource can do for you.

American Job Centers

American Job Centers are local offices that help people find work and build skills. They are part of a nationwide network supported by the U.S. Department of Labor and run by state and local workforce agencies. You may also hear them called by a state-specific name, such as a career center or workforce center.

What they offer

• Career counseling — talk with someone about your interests, skills and goals.
• Job search help — job listings, hiring events and tips on where to look.
• Workshops — resume writing, interviewing, computer skills and more.
• Training information — details on local training programs and how they are funded.
• Computers and internet — space to search and apply for jobs.

How to find one

The easiest way is to visit CareerOneStop.org, a site sponsored by the Department of Labor. It has a locator tool that lists centers near you, along with hours and contact details. You can also call 211 or ask at your public library.

Services and eligibility rules differ by program and location, so it is a good idea to call ahead and ask what is available.

Training through workforce programs

Some people need new skills to move into a different field. Federal workforce programs, delivered through American Job Centers, can sometimes help cover the cost of approved training. This might include short certificate programs in areas like health care, skilled trades, information technology or transportation.

How it generally works

1. Visit or call your local American Job Center.
2. Meet with a career counselor to talk about your goals.
3. Review training programs that connect to jobs in your area.
4. Ask about the eligibility rules for any help with training costs.
5. If you move forward, keep in touch with your counselor as you train.

Each state and local area sets details for its own programs, so the steps can look different where you live.

Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a job where you earn a paycheck while you learn. You train on the job with an experienced mentor and usually take related classes too. When you finish, you often earn a credential that employers recognize across the industry.

Fields that use apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are well known in construction trades like electrical work and plumbing. But today you can also find them in:

• Health care.
• Information technology and cybersecurity.
• Advanced manufacturing.
• Transportation and logistics.
• Hospitality and culinary work.

Finding an apprenticeship

Apprenticeship.gov, run by the Department of Labor, has a search tool for open apprenticeships and information for job seekers. Your American Job Center, local unions, trade associations and community colleges can also point you to programs nearby.

Help with your resume

A clear resume helps employers see what you can do. You do not need fancy software to write a good one.

Resume tips

• Keep it simple. Use a clean layout with clear headings.
• Lead with skills. List the skills that match the job you want.
• Use action words. Words like “organized,” “helped” and “managed” describe what you did.
• Include all kinds of experience. Volunteer work, caregiving and community roles can show real skills.
• Tailor it. Adjust your resume a little for each job you apply to.
• Proofread. Ask a friend, librarian or career counselor to look it over.

CareerOneStop has free resume guides and examples. Many American Job Centers and libraries also offer resume reviews.

Getting ready for interviews

Interviews can feel stressful, but practice helps a lot.

• Research the employer before the interview.
• Think of a few short stories that show your strengths.
• Practice common questions out loud with someone you trust.
• Prepare one or two questions to ask the employer.
• Plan your route and arrive a few minutes early.

Some job centers offer mock interviews, where a staff member plays the role of the interviewer and gives you feedback.

Other places to look for support

Besides job centers, you may find helpful resources at:

• Community colleges — short-term training, career services and continuing education.
• Public libraries — computer classes, job search help and online learning platforms.
• Nonprofit groups — some focus on specific communities, like veterans, older workers or people returning to work.
• Vocational rehabilitation agencies — each state has one to help people with disabilities prepare for and find work.

For more free ways to build skills, see our guide to free learning for adults. If you are thinking about a longer program at a college or trade school, our guide on understanding federal student aid explains how to look into help with costs.

Watch out for job scams

Most job listings are real, but some are not. Be careful with any offer that:

• Asks you to pay for training, equipment or a “starter kit” before you begin.
• Promises high pay for very little work.
• Asks for your bank details or Social Security number before a real interview.
• Pressures you to decide right away.

The Federal Trade Commission shares tips on spotting job scams at consumer.ftc.gov. Our guide on spotting benefit scams covers similar warning signs.

The bottom line

You do not have to plan your next career move alone. American Job Centers, apprenticeships and local workforce programs can help you explore options, build skills and prepare for the job you want. Start by finding your nearest center on CareerOneStop.org, ask about the eligibility rules for any training help, and take your next step one task at a time.