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.
5 Resources
1. Montana Job Service – Workforce Centers — Free
Statewide network of Job Service Workforce Centers offering free help with job search, resume writing, interview prep, labor market information, and training referrals for Montana residents. Fathers can create a MontanaWorks profile, browse current openings, and meet with a workforce consultant in person. Centers also connect job seekers with unemployment insurance, veterans priority services, and WIOA-funded training.
406-444-4100 · 1315 Lockey Ave, Helena, MT 59620 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website
2. Montana Department of Labor & Industry — Free
State agency administering unemployment insurance, workforce programs, apprenticeship, labor standards, and job listings across Montana. Fathers can file for unemployment online, appeal denials, post a resume, and research apprenticeable trades. The Helena office answers questions about wages, overtime, and workplace rights. Many services are fully online; interpreter services are available for non-English speakers.
406-444-2840 · 1315 Lockey Ave, Helena, MT 59620 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website
3. Goodwill Industries – Montana — Free
Goodwill of Montana offers free job training, career counseling, computer classes, and placement assistance for adults with barriers to employment, including fathers re-entering the workforce after incarceration, illness, or long unemployment. Job seekers can visit a career center or apply through partner programs. Proceeds from Goodwill retail stores fund these services; no purchase or donation is required to access help.
406-542-8404 · Missoula, MT 59802 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website
4. Montana Vocational Rehabilitation — Free
State vocational rehabilitation program helping Montanans with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities prepare for and maintain meaningful employment. Fathers with a qualifying disability can apply for a counselor who builds an individualized plan covering assessment, training, assistive technology, and on-the-job supports. Bring medical documentation and photo ID to the first appointment; services are free to eligible clients.
406-444-2590 · 111 N Sanders St, Helena, MT 59601 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website
5. Montana Job Corps – Anaconda — Free
Free residential education and vocational training program for low-income young adults ages 16 to 24 at the Anaconda Job Corps Center. Young fathers can earn a high school diploma or HSE, complete career training in trades like culinary, welding, or healthcare, and receive housing, meals, medical care, and a modest stipend. Applications are handled through a Job Corps admissions counselor; call to get started.
406-563-7500 · Anaconda, MT 59711 · 24/7 residential · Visit Website