Launch Your Career!
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act–eligible graduating seniors and community college students can gain real-world job experience to jumpstart their careers through the 2026 CTE/CTC Youth Services Transition to Employment Program!
ESD 113’s Capital STEM Alliance and the Thurston Chamber of Commerce are matching rural students ages 18–24 with local employers for a 12-week paid work-based learning experience this July–September. This program supports students across various pathways, including:
- Trades (welding, CDL, electrical, forklift, pneumatics, HVAC, refrigeration, diesel engine technology): Supporting manufacturing, logistics, forest/wood products, food production, construction, and maritime; stackable credentials include OSHA 30 and EPA 608
- Healthcare certifications (caregiving, medical assistant, NAC): Supporting healthcare, behavioral health, and human services
- Autobody & collision repair (vehicle services, fleet maintenance, structural repair): Supporting automotive services, fleet maintenance, and transportation
- Information technology (CompTIA A+, network fundamentals, cybersecurity basics): Supporting IT/telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and cross-sector operations roles
- Food & agricultural processing (meat processing, food production, agricultural mechanics): Supporting food production, agriculture, and logistics
- And many others!
Potential Outcomes
Once enrolled, students may receive case management services, transportation expenses, skillset alignment, and placement with local employers. Potential outcomes may include:
- Permanent employment beyond the 12-week work-based learning period
- CTC credit
- Stackable credentials
- Transferable skill sets
More Details
Help us share the word! Print and hang a copy of our informational flyer at your office, center, or school. For more information, email Lorie Thompson.
