What is an American Job Center?

Free walk-in career center funded by the US Department of Labor. Services include job search help, resume writing, interview practice, computer access, WIOA training grants, and direct employer connections. Nearly 2,400 centers nationwide — find yours at careeronestop.org.

Can I get help if I have a record?

Yes. Many states have reentry employment programs; the Center for Employment Opportunities runs transitional jobs in 30+ cities. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit incentivizes employers to hire formerly-incarcerated workers. Fair Chance laws in many states restrict early background checks.

What's an apprenticeship?

Paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction leading to a journey-level credential. Common in trades (electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC) but expanding into healthcare, IT, and finance. Earn while you learn — no student debt. Find programs at apprenticeship.gov.

What if I'm on unemployment?

You likely qualify for free reemployment services through your American Job Center and for WIOA-funded training while receiving benefits. Dislocated worker services are priority for anyone laid off — including severance, retraining, and relocation support.

Job & Career in Iowa

6 verified resources.

About Job & Career for Fathers

Job and career resources for fathers run through the American Job Center (AJC) network — there are roughly 2,400 physical locations nationwide, every one of which offers free services. AJCs provide job search assistance, resume and interview help, WIOA-funded training (often up to

0,000+ in tuition and fees for in-demand occupations), and connections to apprenticeships. Every state has a workforce agency that oversees unemployment insurance, labor market information, and rapid response services for laid-off workers. Registered Apprenticeship programs pay workers while they train for skilled trades (electrician, plumber, HVAC, heavy equipment, and increasingly healthcare and IT). For formerly incarcerated fathers, state Department of Labor reentry programs and organizations like the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) provide transitional jobs and placement. This directory includes AJCs, workforce boards, apprenticeship programs, and reentry services.

Job & Career in Iowa

Iowa district courts hear family cases in all 99 counties, with the Child Support Recovery Unit under the Department of Human Services managing enforcement. Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Sioux City are the largest metros. Iowa Legal Aid is the statewide LSC-funded program, with every county having a self-represented litigant coordinator.

6 Resources

1. IowaWORKS – Workforce Centers — Free

Statewide workforce center network offering job search assistance, career counseling, skills assessment, and training referrals through Iowa Workforce Development. Fathers can access computer labs, resume review, hiring events, and apprenticeship information. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and a current resume or work history. Services are free. Main office in Des Moines with centers in every major Iowa city and rural county hub.

515-281-5387 · 150 Des Moines St, Des Moines, IA 50309 · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

2. Goodwill of the Heartland – Iowa — Free

Nonprofit offering job training, placement, and career development services across eastern and central Iowa. Fathers can access resume help, interview coaching, digital literacy classes, and on-the-job training with Goodwill retail partners. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history to intake. Most services are free, funded by donations and retail sales. Regional office on South 1st Avenue in Iowa City with centers across the region.

319-366-0646 · 1410 S 1st Ave, Iowa City, IA 52240 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services — Free

State program providing employment services, vocational training, and job placement for Iowans with disabilities that affect employment. Fathers with physical, mental, or learning disabilities can apply for individualized plans including skills training, assistive technology, and job coaching. Bring photo ID, medical documentation, and income info. Services are free for eligible participants. Main office on East 12th Street in Des Moines with regional sites.

515-281-4211 · 510 E 12th St, Des Moines, IA 50319 · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

4. AMOS – Job Training Des Moines — Free

Workforce development and career pathway programming for underserved communities in Des Moines including immigrants, refugees, and low-income residents. Fathers can access job readiness workshops, sector-specific training, and placement support. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history to intake. Most services are free for income-eligible participants. Office on Euclid Avenue partners with local employers for on-the-job training opportunities.

515-244-4900 · 1614 Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

5. Iowa PROMISE JOBS — Free

State employment and training program for participants in Iowa's Family Investment Program (FIP) including fathers in TANF-receiving households. Services include career assessment, GED prep, job readiness training, work experience placements, and ongoing case management. Fathers enroll through their local DHS office and coordinate with IowaWORKS. Services are free for eligible participants. Central office on Des Moines Street in Des Moines.

515-281-5387 · 150 Des Moines St, Des Moines, IA 50309 · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

6. Goodwill Industries of Central Iowa — Free

Nonprofit offering job placement, training, and career services for central Iowa residents, with specialized programs for veterans, people with disabilities, and those reentering after incarceration. Fathers can access resume help, digital skills classes, and subsidized on-the-job training. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and work history to intake. Most services are free. Main office on NE 22nd Street in Des Moines with retail and training sites.

515-265-5323 · 4900 NE 22nd St, Des Moines, IA 50313 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Job & Career — Common Questions

What is an American Job Center?: Free walk-in career center funded by the US Department of Labor. Services include job search help, resume writing, interview practice, computer access, WIOA training grants, and direct employer connections. Nearly 2,400 centers nationwide — find yours at careeronestop.org.
Can I get help if I have a record?: Yes. Many states have reentry employment programs; the Center for Employment Opportunities runs transitional jobs in 30+ cities. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit incentivizes employers to hire formerly-incarcerated workers. Fair Chance laws in many states restrict early background checks.
What's an apprenticeship?: Paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction leading to a journey-level credential. Common in trades (electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC) but expanding into healthcare, IT, and finance. Earn while you learn — no student debt. Find programs at apprenticeship.gov.
What if I'm on unemployment?: You likely qualify for free reemployment services through your American Job Center and for WIOA-funded training while receiving benefits. Dislocated worker services are priority for anyone laid off — including severance, retraining, and relocation support.