Youth Workforce Program

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Interested? Sign up now! Call your Specialist today or 360-750-7500 x290, (TDD 360-750-7570)

Program Overview

As young people finish their high school education and begin thinking about their future, many realize that they lack the skills employers desire. Without skills, youth remain stuck in low paying jobs with very little hope for advancement. The Youth Workforce Program is designed to assist young people from Clark and Cowlitz Counties as they begin employment or complete their secondary or post-secondary education.

The Youth Workforce Program's Workforce Development Specialists work closely with youth to develop an individual plan, taking into account the youth's interests, skills and motivation. Most youth remain in the program for 9 to 18 months, gaining additional education through classes, academic support for secondary or post secondary education or training, and real world work experience. Further, the youth gains exposure to multiple careers, communities, businesses, opportunities for leadership development and gains a greater understanding of his/her skills and abilities.

ESD 112 is an equal opportunity employer and provider of employment and training services. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to persons with disabilities.

To see if you qualify, please see our Application page.

Funding Source

Photo of Construction Academy StudentsThe Youth Workforce Program is funded by the Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council. The SWWDC's mission is to provide economic development through a trained and productive workforce in Southwest Washington. To that end, the SWWDC creates partnerships between business and educational organizations, supports training programs and creates a system whereby employers can find qualified employees and employees can find careers at which they will excel.

The SWWDC uses financial resources from the Workforce Investment Act to fund the Youth Workforce Program. This federal program supports the mission of both the SWWDC and the Youth Workforce Program.

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