New Career Assistance Program Launches for Former Students in Birmingham
Birmingham has exciting news for young adults looking to kickstart their careers. A fresh initiative called Promise Pathways is now available specifically for former students of Birmingham City Schools. This program aims to assist those aged between 16 and 24 who are out of high school, college, or job training but are eager to explore meaningful career opportunities.
What is Promise Pathways?
The Promise Pathways program is designed to be a lifeline for young individuals who are ready to transition from just having a job to establishing a real career. As Zara Greene, the Apprenticeship Program Manager, put it, “This is for people who want to find a career and not just a job. We want to help people get on a pathway that will provide a living wage and not just a paycheck.” This program offers a unique chance for up to 25 participants to discover various career options and connect with employers looking for new talent.
Who Can Apply?
If you or someone you know fits the age range and is interested in exploring potential careers, applying is straightforward. You can fill out an application form online at this link. The best part? The services provided through Promise Pathways are absolutely free. This initiative is made possible by a federal grant under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which aims to help young people overcome barriers to employment and connect them with quality jobs.
Program Benefits
Samantha Williams, the Executive Director of Birmingham Promise, explains why this program is essential. “This funding allows us to help students who didn’t participate in our core programs. These are Birmingham students who graduated without applying for scholarships, or who didn’t have a career in mind, or who may not have finished high school at all.” Through Promise Pathways, these students can explore new possibilities, even if they missed traditional routes to education or training.
While the Pathways program doesn’t cover college tuition, it provides a valuable second chance for participants to look at their options and the abundant pathways still open to them. Those who engage with the program will also be linked to various community resources, including college and training programs that can help them step into their desired careers.
A Unique Career Exploration Experience
One of the standout features of the Promise Pathways program is its incorporation of modern technology. Participants will have the chance to experience different job environments—even using virtual reality technology to get a taste of various roles. This innovative approach is part of what makes this program so exciting and beneficial for those looking to find where they fit in the workforce.
How to Get Involved
Greene encourages anyone interested in exploring potential career paths to apply. “We really want to encourage anyone who is interested to apply and see what’s out there for them. This is a great opportunity to find a path to a successful and fulfilling future.”
For anyone wanting to learn more about this program or Birmingham Promise, you can follow them on social media or check their official website for detailed information. This could be a fantastic opportunity for those ready to take the next step in their careers!
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
