MIDDLEBURY — The Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center, together with Vermont Adult Learning, United Way of Addison County and the Vermont Department of Labor has launched VT YouthWorks, a new workforce development program for Addison County area youth age 18-24.
The program is designed to help underemployed and out-of-school young adults enter the workforce or complete their high school or college education. VT YouthWorks wants to create a pathway to employment for young adults that will give them multiple options for continued work and study and build partnerships among support services, employers and Addison County 18-24-year-olds that meet local employment needs.
The program consists of 24 weeks of paid, part-time work beginning Oct. 15, in Middlebury. Participating students may enter the program with or without a high school diploma. As they complete career readiness and on-the-job training, these students can earn up to $4,800 over 24 weeks.
The program runs in three progressive modules:
•  4-week career introduction, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., starting Oct. 15.
•  8-week career exploration, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. starting Nov. 12.
•  12-week work experience, (schedule varies depending on industry track).
Technical training covers several subjects:  Visual Communications, Building Trades, Automotive, Health and Administrative Assistant. Participants can earn industry certifications in Forklift, OSHA, Serve Safe and CPR. Other certificates and training will be provided based on each student’s interest and career path.
“We have designed the program with three progressive modules with the intention that all students complete the entire 24-week program,” said David Roberts, regional director of Vermont Adult Learning in Middlebury. “Students who may only be able to complete the first one or two modules are still encouraged to apply.”
The program is accepting applications now, with applications due Oct. 5. To schedule an appointment to begin the application process or to learn additional information, call 802-388-4392 or contact VT YouthWorks Program Coordinator Kristen Andrews at [email protected].