Since 1996, the Workforce Development Center (WFDC) has operated numerous grant-funded programming offering substantial educational, professional, and career-driven opportunities for area youth and adults in order to help them gain knowledge, confidence and experience to prepare for the future.
Leading with an equitable approach, the WFDC is committed to supporting low-income and at-risk youth and adults in Dutchess County. Our staff members work to increase business access to qualified workers, and ensure our program participants are prepared for the workplace environment, its responsibilities and job retention.
The Workforce Development Center runs under The Chamber Foundation, a nonprofit community development affiliate of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The Career Action Center (CAC) at Poughkeepsie High School is a collaborative initiative between the Poughkeepsie City School District an the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
 This partnership is designed to support students in exploring career pathways, offering resources such as;                   Â
- Career counseling
- Internships
- Job shadowing opportunities
- Connections to local business and industry professionals
- Youth Entrepreneur Program
The center aims to bridge the gap between education and the workforce, helping students develop practical skills and gain real-world experience. By fostering relationships with local employees, the CAC prepares students for successful futures in various fields, empowering them to make informed decisions about their career goals and post-graduation plans.Â
Youth Entrepreneur Program (YEP)
This program funded by the City of Poughkeepsie, offers hands-on learning experiences, including mentorship from local business leaders to help students create and pitch their own business ideas. Participants gain valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship, from identifying opportunities to managing finances and marketing their products. By empowering students with these essential skills, the program aims to inspire the next generation of business leaders in the Poughkeepsie community. Click here for the YEP Application!
Youth One Stop is an education and job-training program for income eligible Dutchess County youth between the ages of 16-24. Youth are paired with a Youth Service Specialist for assistance on various goals including;
- Completing school, enrolling in High School Equivalency, and gainful employment
- Participants have an opportunity to explore career options and gain skills through:
- Work experience
- Job shadowing
- Internships
- Customer service training
- Degree/certificate programs
*The program provided by this agency is partially funded by Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board and Dutchess CountyÂ
Next Step is a collaborative program with the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services. Case managers within the Chamber's Workforce Development Center works with their participants by specially in professional development though:
- Goal setting
- Effective job seeking
- Job readiness training
- Education planning
Next Step is a one-year intensive case management program which utilizes:
- One-on-one mentorship
- Workshops
- Supportive services
- Community resources
In order to enhance their hard and soft skills in order to complete training programs and become gainfully employed.Â
*This program is partially funded by Dutchess County
The Next Gen Summer Academy is dedicated to empowering the next generation. This program priorities real-world work experiences and in-demand skills training to equip youth with the tools they need to succeed in today's ever-evolving job marking. Offered only during the summer, this 3-week program presents an intensive burst of skill-building and personal growth for Dutchess County youth ages 16-21.
This program entails:
- Specialized workshops
- Gain industry-focused skills trainingÂ
- Connect with various community and business leader with expertise from industries of high demand and relevance.Â
Participating youth additionally benefits from stipends and skills-based certifications upon gratin.Â
Gain skills in:
- VR/Robotics
- Production Development
- CodingÂ
- 3D Printing & Design
Program Dates: July 21 -August 8, Monday- Friday 9AM-3PM
Application due by July 14
*This program provided by this agency is partially funded by Dutchess County.
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