The Central Pennsylvania Workforce Development System offers a variety of programs and resources for youth, their families and youth services professionals.

Programs:

Pennsylvania Youth in Transition (PAYT)
In 2000, there were over 11,000 residents under the age of 25 in the Central Region who lack a high school diploma. The PAYT project is a region-wide effort to re-connect these youth to education and successful careers.

Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Youth Program: Bridges to the Future
The WIA Youth Program is creating “Bridges to the Future” for at risk youth in the Central Region.

Central PA YouthBuild
Young adults work toward their GEDs, learn job skills, serve their communities by building affordable housing, and transform their own lives and roles in society.

Central Pennsylvania Summer Employment Experience

The Central Pennsylvania Summer Employment Experience (SEE) is designed for youth and young adults, ages 16 to 24. SEE provides a short-term paid work experience, academic enrichment and career development activities. Participants must meet eligibility requirements. Contact the PA CareerLink^® near you for more information.

Resources:

Parents Toolkit - NOW AVAILABLE ON LINE!
Is your student wondering what courses to select for next year? Is your student having trouble choosing a career path? Are you wondering how to answer his or her questions about postsecondary education and careers? This kit includes a wealth of resources, including information on making school count, how Pennsylvania State Academic Standards for Career Education and Work can affect the students’ school experience and exploring careers. We have also included information on “hot” jobs in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and WorkKeys^®, a nationally recognized skills assessment program endorsed by over 300 local employers. Equally as important, the kit highlights the role of a parent’s involvement in the process.

WorkKeys^®
This nationally recognized skills assessment, powered by ACT^®, assists high school students in identifying workplace skills, abilities and career interests. Successful completion of the assessment results in a Career Readiness Certificate that is useful in applying for further education and employment.

School Counts!
Students keep their grades up, come to school on time, take challenging academic courses and stay out of trouble. School Counts! encourages students to make the most of their important high school years and acquire the habits they will need to succeed.

STEM Initiative
Promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education is a vital component to growing a competitive workforce in the 20th century. Resources are available to help your students academically succeed and explore STEM occupations.