About the Occupational Skills Training Model

The WorkReady Occupational Skills Training model partners youth-serving organizations; employers in high-wage, high-growth industries; and postsecondary institutions/programs to train and employ out-of-school youth, ages 17 through 21, for specific occupations. Through classroom-based and/or field-based hands-on occupational skills training, professional development sessions, and internships/apprenticeships, participants gain occupational skills, attain an industry-recognized credential, and are ready for work. The program includes academic support—contextualized to the industry—that leads to a high school diploma or GED or to measurable improvement in literacy and numeracy skills for participants who have a diploma or equivalency. Participants completing training are placed in jobs in the industry by the youth-serving organization or its partners and/or enroll in postsecondary education. In addition to training and employment, the model provides support services for participants to focus on preparing for living wage, satisfying careers.