At Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas, we are committed to supporting young adults and students in their journey toward successful and fulfilling careers. Our Youth Services programs are designed to provide the resources, guidance, and opportunities needed to explore career paths, gain valuable skills, and dispel common myths about local industries. Whether you are just starting to think about your future career or ready to take the next step, we are here to help you navigate your options and achieve your goals.

Dallas County Young Adults — Your Future Starts Here!

If you’re 16–24 years old, out of school and ready to turn your talents and passions into a real career path, we’re here to help you make it happen. Whether you want to get advanced career training, start a great job, or receive up to 20 weeks of PAID work experience, our team has your back. Opportunities are waiting, don’t miss out.

A man wearing a blue dress shirt and a lanyard with an ID badge sits in a circle with three children, holding a clipboard and engaging them in conversation. The children, two girls and a boy, are attentively listening to the man, suggesting a supportive or educational setting. The environment appears to be indoors, with plants and a glass door visible in the background, indicating a classroom or counseling room. The scene conveys a sense of guidance, mentorship, or discussion, focusing on youth services or support.

Exploring Career Opportunities

Career Exploration

Career exploration is a vital part of planning your future. Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas offers a variety of tools and resources to help you understand the vast array of career opportunities available in our local industries. Our career exploration programs are tailored to help you identify your interests, strengths, and goals, ensuring you make informed decisions about your career path.

  • Assessment Tools: Discover careers that align with your skills and interests through comprehensive assessments.
  • Industry Insights: Gain detailed information about different industries, including job growth, wages, and required qualifications.
  • Career Counseling: Work with our career counselors to explore your options and develop a personalized career plan.
  • VR Experiences: Utilize virtual reality to explore different careers and training opportunities, offering an immersive way to understand various professions.
  • In-Person Career Exploration Events: Participate in events designed to connect youth with local employers. These events provide valuable opportunities to meet industry professionals, learn about various career paths, and discover real-world job opportunities in Dallas County.

Dispelling Myths About Local Industries

Many young people hold misconceptions about local industries and the opportunities they offer. Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas is dedicated to dispelling these myths and providing accurate, up-to-date information about the job market. By understanding the realities of various industries, you can make better-informed decisions about your career.

  • Advanced Manufacturing: Discover the exciting and high-tech world of advanced manufacturing, including opportunities available through programs like Texas FAME.
  • Healthcare, IT, and More: Learn about the diverse and rewarding careers in healthcare, information technology, and other growing fields in Dallas County.
  • Skilled Trades: Explore opportunities in skilled trades such as plumbing, electrical work, and construction, which offer stable and lucrative career paths.
  • Women In Non-Traditional Employment Roles: Learn about initiatives supporting women in pursuing careers in non-traditional roles, breaking barriers, and achieving success in various industries.
  • Success Stories: Hear from professionals who have built successful careers in these industries, providing real-life examples of what you can achieve.

Texas FAME Program

The Texas Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program is a unique apprenticeship program that combines hands-on training with classroom instruction. This “earn and learn” model prepares you for a high-demand career in advanced manufacturing while allowing you to earn a competitive wage.

  • Real-World Experience: Gain practical skills and experience through on-the-job training.
  • Technical Education: Receive classroom instruction tailored to the needs of local employers.
  • Career Advancement: Graduates of the Texas FAME program are well-positioned for long-term success in advanced manufacturing.
  • Competitive Wages: Earn while you learn with wages that increase as you progress through the program.
  • Industry Recognition: Obtain credentials recognized and valued by employers in the manufacturing industry, enhancing your job prospects and career growth.

Internship Programs

Internships provide valuable hands-on experience and an opportunity to explore career paths. Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas partners with local businesses and organizations to offer internship opportunities that help you gain practical skills and build your professional network.

  • Real-World Experience: Gain practical skills and insights into your chosen field.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and potential employers in Dallas County.
  • Career Development: Enhance your resume and improve your job prospects through meaningful work experiences.
  • Mentorship: Benefit from guidance and support from experienced professionals in your field.
  • Transition to Employment: Internships often lead to full-time employment opportunities with the host organization or within the industry.

Additional Youth Services

Our Youth Services programs are designed to provide comprehensive support for young adults and students in Dallas County. From educational assistance to career counseling, we offer a variety of services to help you succeed.

  • GED Assistance: Obtain your High School Equivalency with our supportive classes and resources.
  • Workshops and Seminars: Participate in workshops and seminars on resume writing, interview techniques, and other essential job search skills.
  • Labor Market Information: Access up-to-date information on job trends, wages, and industry demands to help you make informed career decisions.

FAQs

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Program helps young adults ages 16–24 who are out-of-school prepare for success in advanced training, work, and life. Through personalized career coaching, education support, paid work experience, and access to resources like transportation or child care, the program equips youth with the skills and opportunities they need to build a strong future. 

Register to attend our brief program orientation session to learn all about our program and how you can get started.

We connect young adults with a variety of in demand training opportunities such as CDL training, Healthcare, Dental Assisting, and much more.

To qualify for the WIOA Youth Program, you must be a Dallas County resident between the ages of 16–24 and meet certain income or barrier-to-employment criteria (like being out of school, a high school graduate needing career support, or facing challenges such as homelessness, foster care, or justice involvement, pregnant or parenting, or living with a disability). Don’t worry, eligibility is simple to check. Just complete our quick interest form, and a team member will contact you to walk you through the process!

Get Started Today

At Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to pursue a rewarding and successful career. Our Youth Services programs are here to help you explore your options, gain valuable skills, and achieve your goals. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you on your career journey.