If you’re a young person in the District of Columbia, this is where your aspirations take shape.
Skills Nation is your go-to source to explore a variety of innovative tools and resources designed to elevate your potential and uncover exciting career opportunities. Skills Nation, an initiative of the federal workforce programs of the Department of Employment Services, features highly effective initiatives for D.C. youth.
HBCU Public Service Program
Launched in 2024, this program places 25 outstanding seniors from Howard University and the University of the District of Columbia in apprenticeships hosted at D.C. government agencies and DC Water. Participants combine full-time work assignments with practical, hands-on training, gain valuable mentorship, and engage in ongoing professional development opportunities. They also benefit from a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and paid time off.
This partnership aims to harness D.C.’s diverse energy and channel it into the public service sector. We seek individuals who can introduce fresh ideas and new perspectives. In return, participants receive an education that not only instructs but propels their careers forward.
“Together, we’ll work to build stronger neighborhoods and a more inclusive, equitable District of Columbia,” states Kenneth Walker, Deputy Deputy Director of Federal Workforce Programs.
Participants in the Public Service Apprenticeship join a close-knit cohort, forge valuable connections, engage in community service projects, and enhance their professional skills. You’ll have the flexibility to explore various career paths and find your perfect fit. The best part? Upon completing the program, you’re guaranteed a position within the D.C. government, becoming a crucial part of shaping the city’s future.
“The HBCU Public Apprenticeship is a pathway to a career in government. It is an amazing opportunity,” said Montrell Nelson, HBCU Class of 2024, apprentice at the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO).
Out-of-School Program
The Out-of-School Program offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to equip young adults with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s job market. The program includes occupational skills training, career awareness counseling, work readiness modules, basic education, GED preparation, and various on-the-job training experiences.
Participants also receive vocational skills training in diverse fields such as retail services, hospitality, administrative assistance (including MOS certification), information technology, culinary arts, and automotive services.
Targeted at young adults ages 16-24 who are not currently enrolled in secondary or post-secondary education, the Out-of-School Program is dedicated to helping participants achieve both short-term and long-term educational and employability goals. Through a blend of practical training and personalized guidance, the program empowers youth to navigate their career paths effectively, offering real-world experience that enhances their employability. Each participant benefits from targeted training that meets industry demands, ensuring they are well-prepared to enter the workforce with a strong foundation in their chosen vocational area.
Youth Apprenticeships
The Youth Apprenticeship Program is an educational initiative that offers students the opportunity to begin learning a profession by integrating on-the-job experience with relevant academic and technical classroom instruction. Traditional apprenticeship careers include fields such as construction, electrical work, glazing, and welding, while nontraditional paths cover professions like information technology, hospitality, healthcare, and green energy jobs.
This unique blend of hands-on learning and classroom education equips students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to excel in their chosen occupations. Students also benefit from mentorship from industry professionals, who provide guidance and support throughout their apprenticeship journey.
DeErika Joi Smith, 18, a healthcare apprentice with Howard University Faculty Practice Plan, shares her experience: “A team member from the Department of Employment Services visited my high school to introduce the program. I thought, ‘That’s something I could do,’ and took the initiative to reach out. I feel very proud to be working in a large hospital setting in D.C. and functioning as a regular employee.”
Liam Rathke, co-founder and software developer at BuildWithin, began his journey as a youth apprentice while still in junior high school, demonstrating the immense potential and impact of early apprenticeship opportunities.
Pre-Apprenticeships
Quality pre-apprenticeships are designed to prepare individuals for entry into Registered Apprenticeship Programs by combining practical experience with foundational training.
Luis Sarno, a software developer apprentice, learned about a pre-apprenticeship opportunity from Randall Shannon, a D.C. Department of Employment Services workforce development specialist. “I’ve always loved computers, but I never had the chance to attend college or take classes,” Sarno said. “After the 7-week pre-apprenticeship, I was hired as a web developer apprentice. Now I’m coding, and my employer has already informed me that I’ll be staying with the company after my apprenticeship ends. The pre-apprenticeship truly changed my life.”
