Catalyst:
Career Navigation for Young Adults

Are you a young adult living in Frederick County who would like help identifying a career path, connecting to career training, or securing employment?

Catalyst provides eligible young adults between the ages of 16 and 24 with individualized career services at no cost! You will partner with an experienced career specialist to develop and implement a plan to help you reach your educational and employment goals.

Program Milestones:

Explore: Whether you know exactly what career path you want to pursue, or have just started thinking about it, we can help you explore your options. We will review your skills and interests and share information on careers that are in-demand in Frederick County. You may also be able to access informational interviews, job shadow opportunities, and paid work experience as part of your career exploration.

Prepare: We will help you build the workplace skills employers are looking for including communication, teamwork, self-motivation, time management and adaptability. Our program also prepares you for a successful job search by providing assistance with resumes, online applications, interview skills and access to job postings.

Train: Once you have identified a career pathway, we can help you identify and connect with appropriate training for industry-recognized credentials. Financial support may be available to help cover the costs associated with short-term occupational training.

General Program Eligibility

  • Frederick County Resident

  • 16 to 24 years old

  • Authorized to work in the United States

  • Males: Registered for Selective Service (if over 18)

  • One or more barrier to employment as defined by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

* Additional eligibility requirements may apply

Want to learn more? Complete this inquiry form and a staff member will respond within two business days. You may also attend Get Connected, a weekly introduction to One-on-One job search support options offered at Frederick County Workforce Services.

For more information, please email FCWSYouth@frederickcountymd.gov.

 
 
 

Group of young adults sitting at a table and working on laptops.

Overcoming Barriers Scholarships

Founded by the Frederick County Workforce Development Board, this program awards one-year scholarships to Frederick County residents between the ages of 17 and 21 who can demonstrate that they have encountered a barrier in their educational path. A financial barrier in and of itself is not considered a barrier for the purpose of this scholarship. Students enrolling in post-secondary education, including trade and vocational schools, are encouraged to apply. To apply for this scholarship, visit the Community Foundation of Frederick County.


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