Once upon a time, children were asked: "What do you want to be when you grow up?"

Tech Valley High School students use the “ikigai” concept to explore career paths. “Ikigai” is a Japanese phrase that translates to “reason for being.” The concept teaches students that careers are non-linear and shows the need to be adaptable in your career as your needs and interests change over time. What is your “ikigai”?

The VET S.T.E.P. program offers service members the opportunity to learn about job opportunities in the microelectronics manufacturing field. Participants receive training at the Albany Nanotech complex and an internship placement at a partner company, showcasing the transferability of military training and discipline. Gain the industry-specific skills you need to start a career in the burgeoning semiconductor industry.

Students can pursue a variety of pathways after high school. At the middle school level, students at Greenville Schools are exposed to and explore all the pathways they could take while learning professional skills they can apply to any career. In Matt Lacey’s Food Truck class, students put together a business plan as a way to learn the skills for leadership, collaboration, and communication.

M.A.P.P (Multi-Craft Apprenticeship Preparation Program) offers paid pre-apprenticeship training in building and construction trades to communities of color and low-income populations. Graduates earn direct entry into an NYS-registered apprenticeship in local unions, bringing living wages to historically underserved communities.

College can be a transformative experience, but for incarcerated individuals, it can be life-changing. Bard Prison Initiative is unlocking the potential of incarcerated individuals by providing a college education and exposing them to a variety of career paths.

New Americans CanCode offers digital literacy training to immigrants in New York.

Capital District Women's Employment Resource Center (WERC) has provided workforce development training, resource assistance and placement services to Displaced Homemakers since 1978.

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon discusses the growing job market in NY. From green energy to electric vehicles and cannabis, she explains how the world of work is changing and how people can prepare for it.

Dan Cullen, Director of Field Services at WDI, discusses the growing need for skilled electro-mechanical technicians in the advanced manufacturing industry. He explains the unique skillset required for this career and the opportunities available for those interested in pursuing it.

Explore how adaptive technology is transforming workplaces and creating a more inclusive environment for individuals with disabilities.

At the Warren, Washington Albany Counties ARC, people with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to learn workplace skills in the Community Pre-Vocational Program.

Discover the exciting opportunities in the renewable energy sector with Plug Power. Learn how to become part of a dynamic team, debunk misconceptions, and contribute to a greener future.

Explore More: https://wmht.org/WorkInProgress

Discover the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), a transformative initiative under the Older Americans Act. This program offers job training and employment opportunities to eligible individuals aged 55 and above.

Delve into the program's impact, success stories, and how it empowers seniors to acquire valuable skills and find meaningful work.