The Apprenticeship Connecticut Initiative (ACI) develops programs for training qualified youth and entry-level workers for job placement with employers experiencing sustained workforce shortages.
Career Aware: Discover your Path
Guide
Program Details
Career Aware is a free program funded by WIOA and administered by Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board, designed to help young people ages 14-24 explore career options and gain the skills needed for success. Whether you're in school or out, Career Aware connects you with hands-on training, job readiness workshops, and real-world experiences to discover the career path that's right for you. From resume building to internships and certifications, the program empowers you to take the first steps toward a bright future in industries like healthcare, construction, manufacturing, finance, and more.
Equal Opportunity Employment is the law. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
In School Youth Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
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Be between the ages 14-21
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Meet low-income eligibility requirements
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Facing one or more barriers, such as being basic skills deficient, english language learner, or having a disability.
Out of School Youth Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
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Be between the ages 16-24
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Facing one or more barriers such as school dropout, homelessness, foster care, pregnant or parenting, disability/ies, or involvement with the justice system
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Priority is given to this group to help them reconnect to education or career pathways
Meet the Team
Name
Jalil Shabazz
Title
Manager of Youth Programs
Phone
475-233-4001 ext. 119
Email
Name
John Thompson
Title
YOUTH PROGRAM ASSISTANT
Phone
475-233-4001 ext. 120
Email
Additional Resources
Explore these valuable resources to further support your career journey:
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National Youth Employment Coalition: Learn more about addressing youth mental health needs in the workplace.
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Intelligent Career Resources: A comprehensive guide to job preparation for students and recent graduates, helping you take the next step in your career.
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New Haven Job Corps: Job Corps is a no-cost education and career training program that helps young people ages 16-24 improve their skills for high-demand industries like healthcare, construction, IT, and more. Through Job Corps, you can earn your high school diploma or GED, gain hands-on job experience, and even secure certifications—all while receiving support services like housing, meals, and basic health care. Contact Robert Velez for more information.
Team Success Scholars (TSS) is a federally-funded program at Northwestern Connecticut Community College (NWCC) that helps first-time college students achieve their educational and career goals:
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Supports: TSS offers a holistic support system that includes academic tutoring, mentoring, career guidance, internships, and financial support
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Focuses on: TSS focuses on personal development, academic success, and career success
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Program director: Jessie DePonte is the program director of TSS at NWCC
Since 2005, the Workforce Achievers Value Education (WAVE) program has supported a select group of students in building academic, work, and emotional skills to thrive in the real world. Funded by the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board, WAVE offers students a holistic approach through work experience, education, and personalized support. Participants commit to full-time enrollment at NVCC while working part-time for at least one year and engage daily with program administrators. Over half of WAVE graduates continue to four-year colleges, often earning scholarships and financial aid, with work experience both on-campus and within the local community.
The Wave Program - NRWIB 2022 from NW Regional Workforce Board on Vimeo.