Press Release

Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Launches “Start Your Career in MA” to Support Career Exploration Across Massachusetts

New career resource website will connect early-career jobseekers with free MassHire career resources, virtual workshops, and job search support
For immediate release:
6/09/2026
  • Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development
  • MassHire Department of Career Services

Media Contact

Matthew Kitsos, Deputy Chief of Staff & Director of Communications

A picture of the new career resource website

BOSTON — The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, through the MassHire Department of Career Services, today announced the launch of Start Your Career in MA, a new online career resource designed to support early-career jobseekers and career changers with state-supported career tools, labor market information, job search resources, and professional development opportunities through a single, centralized resource designed to support career exploration in Massachusetts.

Free weekly virtual workshops will begin on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, and will focus on resume writing, interview tips, LinkedIn and digital networking, soft skills, and job search strategies. The workshops will be offered online and more information on the workshops plus career search tools can be found at mass.gov/StartYourCareer.

"Massachusetts is competing for talent, and we want people to build their futures here," said Governor Maura Healey. "Start Your Career in MA will help early-career jobseekers and career changers connect with practical tools, expert guidance and real opportunities across Massachusetts. Whether you’re looking for your first job, changing careers or exploring what’s next, MassHire is here to help."

“Starting or changing a career can feel overwhelming, but people don’t have to navigate it alone,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This new resource brings together workshops, job search support and labor market information in one place, making it easier for jobseekers to take the next step and find a path that works for them.”

“Massachusetts is home to extraordinary talent, both current and emerging, and we want them to see a future for themselves here,” said Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones. “Through Start Your Career in MA, we want to help young professionals access available tools, guidance, and connections as they take that first step into the workforce.”

“Start Your Career in MA can help recent graduates connect their education to meaningful career opportunities and provide the support they need to navigate the job market,” said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. “Our students work hard to earn their degrees and we want to make sure they know there are pathways to rewarding careers right here in Massachusetts.”

The initiative is aimed at supporting early career jobseekers and those changing careers as they navigate the transition from education to employment and help them better understand opportunities across the state’s labor market, including in-demand industries, occupations, and skills. This effort comes as Massachusetts’ continues to see strong workforce participation and demand for talent across industries. The state's labor force participation rate among workers ages 25-54 reached 86.7%, its highest level in a decade, and there were more than 229,000 active job postings statewide as of May 2026. Both the website and virtual webinar series will introduce participants to MassHire Career Centers and additional workforce services available across the Commonwealth.

“MassHire Career Centers serve jobseekers at every stage of their career journey,” said MassHire Department of Career Services Director Beth Goguen. “These workshops will give jobseekers the resources and guidance they can use immediately, from strengthening their resumes to preparing for interviews and building professional networks.”

The webinar series schedule includes:

Resume Writing Beyond the Degree
Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 10–11 a.m.
Presented by MassHire Franklin Hampshire, this workshop will help participants learn how to get their resume noticed, choose the right resume format, develop accomplishment statements, and highlight achievements and strengths. Registration link

Interviewing with Confidence
Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 10–11 a.m.
Presented by MassHire Boston ABCD, this session will focus on making strong first impressions, answering interview questions clearly, managing nervousness, connecting skills and experience to employer needs, and following up effectively. Registration link

LinkedIn: Make Your Digital First Impression Stand Out
Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 10–11 a.m.
Presented by MassHire Cape & Islands, this workshop will guide participants through building a strong LinkedIn profile, expanding their network, connecting with recruiters and hiring managers, and searching for jobs on the platform. Registration link

Soft Skills for Job Search: Why They Matter
Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 10–11 a.m.
Presented by MassHire Metro North, this session will help participants understand how communication, reliability, professionalism, adaptability, teamwork, and accountability can support success in interviews and in the workplace. Registration link

Early-career jobseekers and career changers are encouraged to visit mass.gov/StartYourCareer to explore career resources, upcoming workshops, labor market information, and job search tools. Additional employment, training, and resources through the MassHire network at mass.gov/MassHire.

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Media Contact

  • Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development

    The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development builds a skilled workforce, connects talent to opportunity, supports those facing job loss or injury, and ensures safe workplaces.
  • MassHire Department of Career Services

    The MassHire Department of Career Services (MDCS) offers a wide range of services for jobseekers and employers. Jobseekers can work with career counselors, attend career development workshops, access current job openings, and get help with resumes and cover letters. MDCS also supports Massachusetts employers with recruitment and hiring services, including resume screening, and job posting promotion.
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