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 Michigan

13 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 Michigan

Michigan family courts (a division of circuit court) handle custody and related matters in each of its 83 counties, with Friend of the Court offices providing investigation, mediation, and enforcement support specific to Michigan. The Office of Child Support runs statewide enforcement. Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, and Sterling Heights are the largest metros. Michigan Legal Help online self-help center is one of the most robust in the US.

13 Resources

1. Detroit at Work — Free

Detroit's workforce development system providing free career coaching, job training, skills development, and connections to local employers for Detroit residents. Services include resume writing, interview prep, job placement support, and access to paid training programs. Walk into any Detroit at Work service center with a valid ID. No cost to residents. Centers located across Detroit neighborhoods.

313-962-9675 · Multiple Detroit locations · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

2. Michigan Works! Southeast (Detroit) — Free

Serves Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, and surrounding counties with free job search assistance, resume help, career coaching, and connections to training programs. Walk-in and appointment services available at multiple American Job Center locations. Bring a valid ID and resume if you have one. No cost to job seekers. Staff can connect you to funded training, apprenticeships, and employer hiring events.

313-872-8100 · 25363 Eureka Rd, Taylor, MI 48180 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. West Michigan Works! (Grand Rapids) — Free

Regional workforce board serving 7 counties in West Michigan with free career services, employer connections, and skills training for job seekers. American Job Centers in Grand Rapids and surrounding counties offer resume workshops, career assessments, job placement assistance, and funded training referrals. Walk in or call to schedule. Bring a photo ID to get started. Services are free for all job seekers.

616-336-4460 · 864 West River Center Dr NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency — Free

Administers Michigan's unemployment insurance program. File claims online, check payment status, and access reemployment services through the state portal. Apply at michigan.gov/uia with your Social Security number, employment history, and reason for separation. Weekly certifications required to maintain benefits. Reemployment services including job search tools and skills training are also available through the portal.

866-500-0017 · 3024 W Grand Blvd, Suite 9-600, Detroit, MI 48202 · Online 24/7; phone Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

5. Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit — Free

Provides job training, career services, digital skills training, and employment placement for Detroit-area residents seeking employment. Programs include retail, warehousing, culinary, healthcare, and tech certifications. All services are offered on a sliding scale or free to those in need. Visit any Goodwill location with a valid ID to speak with a career specialist and enroll. Placement support continues after hire.

313-964-3900 · 3111 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48208 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

6. Goodwill Industries of West Michigan — Free

Workforce development services including job training, placement assistance, and career counseling for Grand Rapids and West Michigan residents. Training programs cover retail, logistics, healthcare support, and hospitality sectors. Career specialists assist with resumes, interview prep, and job matching. Services are low-cost or free to qualifying individuals. Bring a valid ID to any West Michigan Goodwill location to get started.

616-532-4200 · 3035 Prairie St SW, Grandville, MI 49418 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

7. JVS Human Services (Detroit) — Free

Nonprofit providing employment services, skills training, vocational assessment, and career counseling for metro Detroit residents overcoming barriers to employment. Specializes in serving individuals with disabilities, criminal records, or long-term unemployment. Services include job coaching, resume help, supported employment, and financial literacy. Sliding scale fees apply. Bring ID and work history when attending an intake appointment.

248-233-4232 · 29699 Southfield Rd, Southfield, MI 48076 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

8. Focus: HOPE (Detroit) — Free

Detroit-based nonprofit providing advanced manufacturing training, IT training, food programs, and workforce development for underserved community members. CNC machining, engineering tech, and computer training certifications are offered at below-market or no cost. Food distribution programs serve thousands of families weekly. Located in Detroit's New Center neighborhood. Contact to learn about enrollment eligibility and program start dates.

313-494-5500 · 1355 Oakman Blvd, Detroit, MI 48238 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

9. SBA Michigan District Office — Free

Small Business Administration Michigan District Office providing free counseling, loan programs, and business development resources for entrepreneurs across the state. Services include SBA loan referrals, federal contracting certification, and connections to SCORE mentors and Small Business Development Centers. No cost to access guidance. Call or visit to speak with a business development specialist about starting or growing your business.

313-226-6075 · 477 Michigan Ave, Suite 515, Detroit, MI 48226 · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

10. SCORE Michigan – Free Business Mentoring — Free

Free business mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and executives. Chapters in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Ann Arbor serve small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs statewide. Services include one-on-one mentoring, workshops, and online resources. No cost — completely free. To get started, visit score.org to find your local chapter and request a mentor matched to your industry or business stage.

800-634-0245 · Multiple MI chapters · By appointment · Visit Website

11. Year Up – Detroit — Free

Free career program for young adults ages 18-29 in Detroit combining technical skills training with a paid corporate internship. Participants earn an industry-recognized credential and a living stipend during the program. Training areas include IT, cybersecurity, data analytics, and financial operations. Application required; program is competitive. Visit yearup.org to apply and check current Detroit cohort openings and deadlines.

857-284-6200 · Detroit, MI · Full-time program · Visit Website

12. Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) – Michigan — Free

Free transitional employment program for people with recent criminal records in Michigan. Provides immediate paid work, structured job readiness training, and placement assistance into permanent employment. Participants work on community service crews while developing job skills and building work history. Enrollment is open to returning citizens upon release. Contact CEO Michigan to find the nearest intake location and learn about eligibility requirements.

Michigan locations · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

13. Federal Bonding Program – Michigan — Free

Free fidelity bonding program for job seekers in Michigan with criminal records, poor credit, or other employment barriers. Bonds cover the first six months of employment at no cost to the employer or applicant, making it easier for barriers-affected workers to get hired. Ask for a Federal Bonding referral at any Michigan Works! American Job Center. Bring ID and any job offer documentation to your appointment.

Through Michigan Works! centers · 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.