- Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development
This National Workforce Development Month, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) is recognizing the contributions of workforce professionals and programs that support jobseekers and employers. Massachusetts’ workforce development programs work toward closing equity gaps experienced by the unemployed and underemployed. In collaboration with Commonwealth Corporation (Comm Corp), we’re committed to ensuring that Massachusetts businesses have access to a pipeline of highly skilled workers. Follow along this Workforce Development Month as we spotlight different tools in the state’s toolbox.
This week we are highlighting Comm Corp’s Director of Youth Employment, Curriculum & Trainings, Tasia Cerezo, and the YouthWorks Program.
What do you do at Commonwealth Corporation?
As the Director of Youth Employment, Curriculum & Trainings, I oversee the YouthWorks Program and work collaboratively with MassHire Workforce Boards to connect youth and young adults to employment opportunities within their region.
Can you tell us more about the program?
The YouthWorks program provides employment opportunities for youth and young adults ages 14 to 25 years old, across the state of Massachusetts, between July to August (cycle 1) and September to June (cycle 2), annually. The program bridges the gap between youth and employment, creating a new wave of emerging workers ready to enter the labor force. Participants of these programs are young adults whose family income does not exceed the annual equivalent of 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. This is achieved by partnering with nonprofits, cities and municipalities, and private sector businesses, offering a variety of career experiences to our participants throughout the program year.
How can an employer participate in the program?
Employers interested in becoming a YouthWorks partner are encouraged to contact their local MassHire Workforce Board. To find a MassHire near you, click here.
What type of occupations does the program train and prepare jobseekers for?
YouthWorks opens the door for participants to explore several career pathways within a variety of industries. These industries often reflect occupations and jobs that are popular within their community. Our goal is to make strides to provide a balance between the interests of participants and in-demand careers. Most importantly, youth and young adults receive training in core soft skills, mentorship, and the opportunity to work side-by-side with professionals who are engaged in the field of their interest. Additionally, participants have the opportunity to leave the program with credentials and are provided support to further their education and career pathways.
How does the program empower Massachusetts jobseekers?
The YouthWorks program provides young people with their first work experience in a professional setting while equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive beyond their time with the program. By partnering with various businesses and organizations, Massachusetts can create a diverse range of opportunities that cater to the varied interests and career aspirations of the Commonwealth’s future workforce. This initiative is about more than just employment; it's about empowering our youth and setting them on the path to long-term success.
To learn more about the YouthWorks program, visit https://commcorp.org/program/youthworks/
