Find job training for immigrants and get skills for work

Why consider job training

Job training can help you learn skills that employers in the U.S. are looking for. It can also help you find better jobs with higher pay. Whether you want to start a new career or improve your skills, job training gives you what you need to succeed.

Where to find job training programs

Local libraries, schools, and community centers

Many libraries, schools, and community centers offer basic job training programs. You can learn essential skills, such as improving your English, to prepare for work. If you are a refugee or asylee, refugee resettlement services can also help you.

American Job Centers (AJCs)

American Job Centers (AJCs) are one-stop resources that offer free job training, career services, and job matching. If you face barriers to finding a job, like limited education or English skills, AJCs can help with résumé writing and connecting you to job training.

Find your local American Job Center and explore other resources on CareerOneStop.

Community Colleges

Community colleges are schools for adults of all ages that offer different classes and job training programs. You can take evening classes to learn English or enroll in longer courses for specific careers like healthcare or engineering. These programs usually cost less than university classes.

Find a community college.

Search online

Many job training programs can now be done online. You can find courses that teach skills like coding, project management, or healthcare-related training. These programs let you learn at your own pace and fit around your schedule, making it easier to study from home.

Learn what skills and training you need

Before starting a job training program, it can be helpful to learn what skills you need for the job you want. Here are some resources to help you explore different careers and their requirements:

• MyNextMove: Learn about different careers, training programs, and certifications.
• O*NET Online: Find information about the skills and tasks needed for different jobs.

Programs for specific groups 

Farmworkers  

The National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP) is a program offered nationwide for migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their dependents.

Immigrant professionals  

If you were a professional in your home country, Upwardly Global helps you restart your career in the U.S. They offer:

• One-on-one job search assistance
• Interactive courses on résumés, interviews, and professional English
• Free certification programs in IT, project management, and more
• Networking events with top U.S. employers

They also support professionals in getting licensed in fields like healthcare, engineering, and law. 

Find help with Upwardly Global’s Career Coaching and Career Readiness Resources.

Older adults (55+)

The Senior Community Service Employment Program offers community service positions and work-based training to help adults 55 and older find new careers. 

Youth (16-24)

Job Corps is a free government program that offers education and job training for young adults aged 16-24. They have different programs for fields like healthcare, culinary, construction, and computer technology.

YouthBuild offers pre-apprenticeship job training for at-risk youth (16-24). It provides training to help you learn work skills in fields like construction, healthcare, and IT.

Local programs

There are many programs specific to a state or city. Some examples of these are:

• The Refugee Employment Partnership (REP) is a group that helps recently arrived refugees and asylees find job opportunities in New York. 
• Building Skills Partnership is a non-profit organization in California that offers different programs and training opportunities.

Become an apprentice

An apprentice is someone who learns skills while he or she works. You train on the job and sometimes take classes too. Apprenticeships are a good option if you want to work in a specific job, like plumbing or electrical work, but do not have the skills.

You can find apprenticeships by:

• Search apprenticeship jobs and programs with employers across the country with the Registered Apprenticeship Programs.
• Asking local businesses if they will train you as an apprentice. Employers may like your dedication and willingness to learn and can teach you the skills you need.

Get certified for jobs

If you already have job skills, such as teaching, plumbing, or nursing, you may need a certification to work in the U.S. Certification shows employers that you are trained and qualified for the job.

• CareerOneStop Certification Finder helps you find the certification you need.
  Explore certification programs.
• Many certifications require passing a test. Upwardly Global can help you prepare.

You can also complete many certifications online. This is helpful if you need to balance work, family, or language learning. Online platforms like Coursera, edX, and Google Career Certificates offer training in careers with a lot of needs like IT, project management, and data analysis. Some programs are free or offer financial aid.

---

More from USAHello

Looking for specific information?

Basic computer skills & internet safety

Adult education

Learn English