Looking for Career Training? Start Here

Whether you want to change careers, move up in your current field, or get back into the workforce, training can open new doors. But knowing where to begin can be confusing. There are many programs, schools, and websites out there. This guide explains several well-established starting points and how to compare your options.

Start by thinking about your goals

Before looking at programs, take some time to think about what you want.

Questions to ask yourself

• What kind of work do I enjoy?
• What skills do I already have?
• Do I want to stay in my current field or try something new?
• How much time can I spend on training each week?
• Do I need to keep working while I train?

Writing down your answers can help you focus your search and explain your goals when you talk to a career counselor.

Explore careers with CareerOneStop

CareerOneStop is a website sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. It is a great place to research careers before committing to any training.

What you can do on CareerOneStop

• Take self-assessments to explore interests and skills
• Look up typical wages and job outlook for different careers
• Learn what training or certifications a job usually requires
• Search for local training programs
• Find your nearest American Job Center

Spending some time here can help you compare paths and avoid training for a job with few local openings.

Visit an American Job Center

American Job Centers are local offices that help people with job searches and career planning. They are funded through the U.S. Department of Labor and run by state and local workforce agencies.

Services that may be available

• One-on-one career counseling
• Help with resumes and interview skills
• Job search workshops
• Information about local employers
• Access to computers and internet for job searching
• Information about training programs and funding

Many services at American Job Centers are offered at no charge. You can find your nearest center through CareerOneStop.

Understanding WIOA training programs

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a federal law that funds employment and training services. Through American Job Centers, WIOA may help some people pay for training in in-demand fields.

How it generally works

• You meet with a career counselor at an American Job Center.
• The counselor reviews your situation, goals, and work history.
• If WIOA training funds are an option for you, you may choose from a list of training providers your state has reviewed.
• Funding is often tied to careers that are in demand in your area.

Eligibility rules vary by state and local area, and funding levels change over time. A local American Job Center can explain what may be available and how the process works.

Consider an apprenticeship

Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom learning. In a registered apprenticeship, you are generally hired by an employer and paid while you learn.

Why apprenticeships appeal to many people

• You earn wages from the start.
• Pay often increases as your skills grow.
• You finish with a nationally recognized credential.
• Many are in skilled trades, health care, information technology, and manufacturing.

You can search for opportunities on Apprenticeship.gov. Some programs also offer pre-apprenticeship training to help people prepare.

Look into community college certificates

Community colleges offer many short-term certificate programs. These programs focus on specific job skills and can often be finished in a year or less.

Common certificate areas

• Medical assisting and other health care support roles
• Welding and skilled trades
• Information technology and cybersecurity
• Bookkeeping and office administration
• Commercial driving

Ask about evening, weekend, or online classes if you need flexibility. Many community colleges also have career services offices and may help students learn about federal student aid, grants, and scholarships. Filling out the FAFSA is often the first step for federal student aid.

Things to consider

Before you sign up for any training, take time to compare options carefully.

• Total cost. Ask about tuition, books, fees, tools, uniforms, and testing costs.
• Time commitment. How many hours per week, and how long until you finish?
• Credentials. Will you earn a certificate, license, or industry certification employers recognize?
• Job outcomes. Ask how many graduates find jobs in the field and how long it usually takes.
• Accreditation. Check that the school or program is properly accredited or registered.
• Local demand. Use CareerOneStop to see whether employers near you are hiring for that role.
• Watch for pressure. Be cautious of programs that push you to sign up quickly or promise specific job outcomes.

Questions to ask any training provider

• What will I be able to do when I finish?
• What support do you offer during and after training?
• Do you help with job searches?
• Are there payment plans or funding options?
• Can I talk to past students?

Taking the next step

Career training is an investment of time and energy. Starting with trusted, established resources like CareerOneStop, your local American Job Center, and Apprenticeship.gov can help you make a confident choice.

Remember that eligibility is set by the organization that runs each program, and rules change over time. Confirm details directly with each program before making plans.