At Central PA CareerLink®, we put you the customer at the center of everything we do. Our friendly and expert staff want to learn who you are, where you’ve come from, and where you want to go so we can help you get there. Whether you are seeking training, connection to resources, or employment and career opportunities, you’ve come to the right place.
The first time you access our services, you’ll have a one-on-one welcome with a member of our staff who will listen and then share information about what we have to offer. Examples of those offerings include:
We have specialized staff who are experts in serving individuals with different circumstances. We’ll introduce you to those staff and their programs so you can learn more and decide what’s right for you. Our specialized programs require eligibility, and include enhanced services such as individualized career planning and access to training funds.
Quicklinks
Central Connections
No matter where you are in your employment journey, Central Connections has knowledgeable staff ready to assist with all of your workforce needs. Whether you need help deciding on a career goal, finding a job, or making a change to a new field, we will help you find your way. Our staff places the emphasis on you: we’ll help you develop a customized plan from our menu of services to help you meet your goals.
Some of the most common services we offer involve us helping our customers:
- identify your skills and abilities
- understand the career opportunities right here in Central PA
- create and edit resumes to showcase talents and skills
- prepare for interviews
- access potential funding to pursue training
- overcome challenges and barriers
Above all else, our approach is one where you and your family are our top priority, and your career success is our number one goal.
EARN
Get ready for good things ahead! For individuals enrolled in EARN, referred from the County Assistance Office, the future is full of possibilities as we make a change for the better. Our welcoming staff will treat you with respect and care. As we learn about you and your household, we will take that knowledge and connect you to the resources you and your family need to feel secure.
You will participate in a set number of hours each week as you complete meaningful activities and build professional relationships and skills. Our Wellness Coach will be one of the first staff you meet and will remain on stand-by to address any issues or barriers that should arise. You’ll also have a Workforce Specialist who will help you navigate anything life throws your way. They’ll help you realize your strengths, identify your goals, learn new skills, earn your GED®, explore potential careers, brainstorm solutions to problems, and continue your education to help you get a good job – one you will enjoy and feel confident in.
Once you join EARN and meet our staff, we hope you’ll see our goal is to help you meet yours. We want you and your children to be happy. We know that life can put obstacles and barriers in our way, and we’ll work with you to overcome what might arise, meet your goals, and find a job that will allow you and your family to thrive. Don’t just take our word for it, watch the good things that came for past and present EARN participants.
EARN – Get Ready for Good Things Ahead
Trish’s EARN Story
Tyran’s EARN Story
YES to the Future
It is time to make your way as an adult, and there are things you are eager to accomplish. Whether you have always known what you wanted to be when you grew up or you are still working to figure it all out, YES to the Future will help you get started and stay motivated as you make those life-changing first steps.
Here is how it works: you’ll partner with a Career Counselor to turn your ideas for your future into specific goals you’ll want to achieve. You’ll know what steps to take, where to turn for help, and how to overcome obstacles. YES to the Future will connect you with goal-oriented peers, employers looking to hire, and professionals willing to mentor.
Don’t have any work experience? No problem! We have a paid internship.
Aren’t sure what career is right for you? Understandable. We can show you around and help you make an informed decision.
Need training or education but unsure how to get it? You’ve come to the right place! YES can get you started in college, on-the-job training, or apprenticeship programs.
Complete the YES to Youth Interest Form to tell us what you’re hoping to accomplish, and YES to the Future will show you how it’s possible.
Bridges to the Future
In high school, you are asked tough questions like “What are you doing after graduation?” … “Are you going to college? How will you pay for it?” … “Will you get a “good job?” … “Are you going to join the military?”
The pressure is real, and the questions are hard to answer. That is why the PA CareerLink® is happy to offer the Bridges to the Future program.
Bridges to the Future offers a guided path from a student’s sophomore year to workforce readiness at graduation. Participants develop a personalized career plan with the help of a professional career coach to explore their interests, choose a direction, and gain experience.
Throughout their time in the program, students observe actual work environments, develop essential professional skills, and build the confidence needed to set and achieve long-term goals.
Key activities include Camp STEAM, a fun and informative series held during the summer after 10th grade that shows you how science, technology, engineering, arts, and math are used on the job. Then, in the summer after junior year, participants are connected with employers in their communities and earn a wage in a real-life job. Our staff will be by your side for these summer activities, throughout the school year, and for graduation and whatever you determine is next.
Our program is free and accessible at a number of schools across Central PA.
High school flies by and graduation is the start of a whole new chapter. Start writing your future today through Bridges to the Future.
Veterans Services
Veterans are priority at the Central PA CareerLink® and we have staff specifically trained to meet your needs. Our specialized staff work directly with veterans to provide a full array of services, including career guidance, assistance securing funding for training, help navigating the services owed to you as a Veteran, and ultimately, they will assist you in obtaining civilian employment at a wage to sustain your family. Your dedicated staff person will listen to where you are and help you get to where you want to be.
Thank you for your service. It would be our honor to assist you. Please contact your local PA CareerLink® for more information.
Individuals with Disabilities
The PA CareerLink® system is open to all people, and our staff pride themselves on being welcoming and accommodating. All of the sites, including The Link, are ADA accessible and have assistive technology available. While all programs are open to eligible individuals, there are additional programs and supports available for people with disabilities. A partner of PA CareerLink®, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation provides services for eligible people with disabilities to help them to prepare, obtain, and maintain a job. Services may include, but are not limited to:
- Diagnostic services
- Vocational counseling, guidance, and evaluation
- Medical services and equipment such as physical and occupational therapy, wheelchairs, and automobile hand controls can be provided to enable you to pursue and achieve employment
- Training
- Education to prepare you for a job including, but not limited to, basic academic, vocational / technical, college, on-the-job training, independent living skills, and personal and work adjustment training
- Job development and placement assistance
- Readers and sign language interpreters
Support services to help you get and keep a job, for example, home modifications, adaptive or special household equipment, job site modifications, hearing aids, tools, and equipment.
RESEA
You may receive a letter inviting you to the Re-employment Services and Eligibility Assessment Program (RESEA) if you receive Unemployment Compensation. As a participant in RESEA, Central PA CareerLink® staff will help you develop a personalized plan to meet your career goals. To do this, you’ll complete a questionnaire and then we’ll talk with you one-on-one to learn more about your strengths as well as challenges you might be faced with. We’ll continue working with you to help link you to relevant training opportunities, PA CareerLink® workshops, and businesses interested in finding talent like yours.
Reboot
We recognize that people in recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD) can be some of the most dedicated and productive employees any employer would be lucky to have. That’s why we offer comprehensive career coaching and workforce services including tuition assistance and paid On-the-Job Training (OJT) programs with employers.
Reboot staff provide one-on-one support as you strive for your goals. Whether your goal is to complete a degree that was interrupted, earn an industry-recognized credential, or start full-time employment, Reboot staff can help you find your footing. Your Reboot staff will be available to help you develop your resume, prepare for interviews, and find open job opportunities in addition to helping you access a network of community resources and assistance for housing, transportation, food, and anything else that stands in the way of your success.
Reboot staff has experience helping individuals with a criminal background history, those who have been out of work for a long time, and those who want to make a career change. Our relationship with employers will open doors for you with local companies who recognize recovery as a strength.
Contact your local PA CareerLink® today to connect with Reboot staff, tell them your story, and learn how we might be able to help you on your journey.
Help is available for Pennsylvanians battling substance use disorder and their loved ones. For more information, visit www.pa.gov/opioids.
Reboot – What You Can Expect From Reboot
Reboot – Gina’s Story
Trade
The Trade Adjustment Assistance (Trade) program is designed specifically for eligible individuals who have lost their job due to foreign competition. As an eligible Trade customer, you’ll have access to full array of PA CareerLink® services including personalized career services and guidance in addition to assistance applying for Trade income support. Trade customers are eligible for workforce training, including On-the-Job Training and Classroom Training in order to enhance skills and transition to new employment aligned with goals.
The goal of Trade is help you understand your strengths, overcome barriers, increase your skills, and connect with local businesses who need talent like yours.
Individuals who feel they have been dislocated due to foreign competition may contact the PA CareerLink®.
Older Adults
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is for adults ages 55 and older who are income-eligible and seeking employment. As a participant, you’ll work for a local non-profit or public facility, usually 20 hours per week. You’ll earn a wage paid by SCSEP, gain valuable on-the-job experience, and help your community as you put your talents and time to work.
In addition, our program provides:
- a comprehensive assessment to understand your career goals
- case management and an individualized plan to help you reach your goals
- training, such as computer skills classes
- access to the full range of resources at the PA CareerLink®, including assistance transitioning to unsubsidized employment.
As an adult aged 55+, you have meaningful life experiences and talents that employers value. Contact the PA CareerLink® to learn about how we might help you re-enter the workforce.
