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 West Virginia

7 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 West Virginia

West Virginia Family Court is a statewide unified system handling divorce, custody, and child support. The Bureau for Child Support Enforcement operates under DHHR. Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, and Morgantown are the largest cities. Legal Aid of West Virginia is the statewide LSC-funded civil legal aid program.

7 Resources

1. WorkForce West Virginia — Free

State workforce agency operating career centers across West Virginia that offer free job search assistance, resume help, training referrals, and unemployment insurance services. Fathers returning to work or seeking advancement can visit their local American Job Center. Headquarters on Kanawha Boulevard East in Charleston; centers statewide. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, and a resume or work history. Open Monday through Friday business hours.

304-558-2630 · 1900 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25305 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

2. Goodwill Industries of Kanawha Valley — Free

Nonprofit offering job training, resume help, digital-skills classes, and career development services in the Charleston area. Fathers facing barriers to employment can access free programs and connect to retail job opportunities with Goodwill. Located on 2nd Street in Charleston. Bring photo ID and any training or education records when visiting. Open Monday through Friday business hours for intake and career services appointments.

304-346-0811 · 420 2nd St, Charleston, WV 25302 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. WV Division of Rehabilitation Services — Free

State agency providing vocational rehabilitation and employment services for West Virginians with disabilities, including fathers whose disability affects their ability to work. Services include counseling, training, assistive technology, and job placement. Located on Capitol Street in Charleston with field offices statewide. Bring photo ID, any medical records, and prior work history to intake. Open Monday through Friday business hours.

304-356-2060 · 107 Capitol St, Charleston, WV 25301 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Community Action Agencies – Employment — Free

Job training, career navigation, and supportive-services programs delivered through West Virginia's community action network. Services may include GED prep, work-readiness classes, and help overcoming barriers like transportation and childcare. Fathers can call the Charleston contact number to be routed to their local agency. Bring photo ID, proof of income, and work history to intake. Open Monday through Friday business hours.

304-347-2277 · Charleston, WV 25301 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

5. Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA – Huntington — Free

Nonprofit offering job training, career counseling, and employment services in the Huntington Tri-State area. Fathers facing barriers to work can access free programs including resume help, digital skills, and job placement. Located on Memorial Boulevard in Huntington. Bring photo ID and any training or education records. Open Monday through Friday business hours for career-services appointments serving Cabell, Wayne, and nearby counties.

304-525-7034 · 1102 Memorial Blvd, Huntington, WV 25701 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

6. WV Small Business Development Center — Free

Free, confidential one-on-one counseling and training for West Virginians starting or growing small businesses. Fathers exploring entrepreneurship can access business-plan help, financing guidance, and market research at no cost. Main office on Kanawha Boulevard East at the Capitol Complex in Charleston, with regional centers around the state. Call or visit the website to schedule. Open Monday through Friday business hours statewide.

304-558-2960 · 1900 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25305 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

7. WV Job Corps – Harpers Ferry — Free

Free federal residential education and career-training program for young adults ages 16 to 24, located on Job Corps Road in Harpers Ferry. Young fathers can earn a high school diploma or equivalent and training in trades like healthcare, construction, and IT while living on-site. Housing, meals, and medical care are provided. Apply online or call for admissions. Residential program operates 24/7 with weekday intake.

304-725-6619 · 151 Job Corps Rd, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425 · 24/7 residential · 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.