Finding your path: Job training and career help

Have you ever felt stuck in your job or wondered how to learn new skills that could lead to better employment? Maybe you're just starting out and don't know where to begin. The good news is that right here in the Mat-Su Borough, there are a lot of programs to help residents find training, learn new skills, and connect with employers who are hiring.

Job training programs exist to bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in your career. They understand that not everyone can afford college degrees or take years off work to go back to school. Instead, they offer practical training that teaches skills employers need. Some programs focus on healthcare jobs like nursing assistants or medical billing. Others teach trades like welding, construction, or heavy equipment operation. There are programs for office skills, computer technology, and business management.

The Alaska Job Center in Wasilla is one of the best places to start your search. This free resource helps residents find jobs, write better resumes, and prepare for interviews. The staff can connect you with training programs that match your interests and abilities. They also know which local employers are hiring and what skills those companies need most. You can visit them in person at their Wasilla location on the Parks Highway, or you can explore their services online through the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development website.

For young adults ages 16-24, the Alaska Job Corps Center offers a unique opportunity that combines education, career training, and support services all in one place. Located in Palmer, this federally funded residential program provides free training in several career areas, including construction, culinary arts, and office administration. Students can earn their high school diploma or GED while also learning a trade, and the program includes room and board at no cost to participants. The program also provides job placement guidance, helping students transition into actual employment with the skills they've learned.

The University of Alaska’s Matanuska-Susitna College in Palmer offers certificate programs and workforce training that students can finish in months instead of years. These programs are designed for working adults who need flexible schedules. Many classes meet in the evenings or on weekends, and some are even available online. The college works closely with local businesses to make sure their training matches what employers actually need. Their workforce development office can help you figure out which program makes sense for your goals and situation.

Another valuable resource is the Alaska Workforce Investment Board, which funds training programs throughout the state. If you qualify, you might receive financial help to pay for training in high-demand fields. This can include tuition assistance, help with books and supplies, or even support with childcare and transportation while you're in training. The eligibility requirements vary, but many working families qualify for at least something.

Job fairs happen several times throughout the year in the Mat-Su Valley. These events bring together dozens of employers who are actively hiring. You can talk directly with company representatives, learn about open positions, and sometimes even interview on the spot. The Mat-Su Health Foundation, local chambers of commerce, and the Alaska Job Center all host or sponsor job fairs. There's even one coming up next month on March 25 in Wasilla!

For residents interested in starting their own businesses, the Alaska Small Business Development Center offers free consulting and low-cost training workshops. They have an office in Wasilla that provides one-on-one help with business planning, financing, and marketing.

These local resources exist specifically to help Mat-Su residents improve their employment situations and build better futures for their families. Whether you're looking to change careers, upgrade your skills, or find your first real job, the support you need is available right here in our community. Start by visiting the Alaska Job Center or calling them to schedule an appointment. That first step could lead you toward the career you've been hoping for all along.

Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaskan resident with over 25 years of public safety experience and public service. He runs a freelance business, Big Lake Writer, from home in Big Lake that he shares with his wife of 19 years and their three teenage sons.