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 Vermont

8 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 Vermont

Vermont's Family Division of the Superior Court handles all family matters statewide. The Office of Child Support Services operates under DCF. Burlington, South Burlington, Rutland, and Essex are the largest towns. Vermont Legal Aid and Legal Services Vermont (a nonprofit partner) provide civil legal aid, including a joint statewide Family Law helpline.

8 Resources

1. Vermont JobLink — Free

Online job board run by the Vermont Department of Labor connecting job seekers with employers statewide, including state, private sector, and remote listings. Fathers can search openings, post resumes, and register for career services for free. Career resource centers across Vermont help with resume writing, interview prep, and job search strategy. Bring photo ID when visiting a local center.

(802) 828-4000 · Online platform · 24/7 online · Visit Website

2. Goodwill Industries of Northern New England — VT — Free

Job training, career counseling, and employment placement services for Vermonters facing barriers to employment. Fathers can apply for workforce programs through the Burlington office. Services include digital literacy, GED prep, retail job training, and support for people with disabilities or criminal records. Bring photo ID, resume (if available), and a list of skills or interests to the first intake.

(802) 862-4587 · Burlington, VT 05401 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Vermont Small Business Development Center — Free

Free one-on-one business counseling for Vermont entrepreneurs covering business plans, financing, marketing, operations, and regulations. Fathers starting or growing a business can schedule confidential advisory sessions through the Randolph headquarters or regional offices. Bring a business concept, financials (if available), and questions. Workshops and online resources also available at no cost to entrepreneurs.

(802) 728-9101 · PO Box 188, Randolph, VT 05060 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Vermont Apprenticeship Program — Free

Registered apprenticeships combining paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction across trades including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and IT. Fathers seeking a skilled career path can apply through the Department of Labor Montpelier office or partner employers. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and high school diploma or GED. Apprentices earn while learning and usually advance to journey-level pay.

(802) 828-4000 · 5 Green Mountain Dr, Montpelier, VT 05601 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

5. ReSOURCE — Job Training — Free

Workforce training, retail job placement, and employment services in Burlington's Pine St neighborhood. Fathers facing barriers to work can enroll in paid training programs covering construction, retail, and customer service. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and a list of previous jobs. Programs often include case management, transportation help, and connections to housing and benefits for participants.

(802) 658-4143 · 329 Pine St, Burlington, VT 05401 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

6. Vermont Works for Women — Free

Job training, career development, and workforce readiness programs for women and girls in Vermont, including non-traditional trades like construction, manufacturing, and technology. While most programs focus on women, fathers can point partners, co-parents, and daughters to the Burlington Main St office. Services include paid training, mentorship, and career coaching. Bring photo ID and a resume or work history.

(802) 655-8900 · 191 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm · Visit Website

7. Vermont Unemployment Insurance — Free

File for and manage unemployment insurance benefits online or by phone through the Vermont Department of Labor. Fathers who lost work through no fault of their own can apply for weekly benefits and access reemployment services. Bring photo ID, Social Security number, employment history for the past 18 months, and bank information for direct deposit. Benefits require ongoing job search and availability for work.

(877) 214-3330 · 5 Green Mountain Dr, Montpelier, VT 05601 · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

8. Southeastern Vermont Community Action — Employment — Free

Job training, employment support, and barrier-removal services for low-income families in Windham and Windsor Counties. Fathers can enroll at the Westminster office for help with resumes, job search, training, transportation, and work-related clothing. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, and a list of prior jobs. SEVCA also connects workers with housing, heating, and childcare assistance.

(802) 722-4575 · 91 Buck Dr, Westminster, VT 05158 · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

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.