Below is a current list (as of March 20, 2026) of free training programs offered by NYCETC member organizations that are actively enrolling. These programs support New Yorkers in building skills and accessing job opportunities across a range of industries.
Each training is managed by the organization listed. For questions about eligibility, schedules, or application details, please reach out directly to the organization facilitating the program.
Pathways to Employment: Work Readiness Series – United Spinal Association
8-session workshop series starting March 17 | Every 3rd Tuesday at 1 pm ET | Virtual
An 8-session virtual workshop series designed for wheelchair users seeking to enter or advance in the workforce. Sessions cover topics including managing benefits while working, resume development, disability disclosure and workplace accommodations, interview preparation, LinkedIn and networking, and job search strategies. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, but welcome to join at any point even if you missed the first session.
- Eligibility: Wheelchair users interested in preparing for or returning to work
- Register for the Pathways to Employment series
Work Readiness Training Program – Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce
10-week virtual training program | Brooklyn residents
A job readiness training program designed to help participants strengthen their job search and workplace skills, including navigating the job market, interviewing successfully, and preparing for long-term career growth.
- Eligibility: Brooklyn residents who are unemployed or underemployed and at least 18 years old
- Live online training sessions focused on real-world job search and workplace skills
- Access to job fairs, employers, and open roles
- Apply to the Work Readiness Training Program
- View the Work Readiness Training Program flyer
HVAC Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program – NYC Small Business Services
12-week full-time training program | New York City
A pre-apprenticeship program designed to prepare participants for careers in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). The program combines classroom instruction, hands-on training, industry credentials, and career placement support.
- Credentials include OSHA 30, Site Safety Training, EPA Section 608, Mold Awareness, Confined Space, Fire Safety Awareness, Asbestos Awareness, NCCER credentials, and scaffold certifications
- Eligibility: NYC resident, age 18+, high school diploma or equivalency, authorized to work in the U.S., unemployed or earning under $60,000 annually, full eligibility on program flyer
- Learn more about the HVAC Pre-Apprenticeship program
- Register for an info session & candidate interview in March
- View the HVAC Pre-Apprenticeship training flyer
Green Construction Training Program – NYC College of Technology
10-week training program | Spring 2026
A scholarship-supported training program preparing participants for careers in the construction industry. Participants receive hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications while earning college credit.
- Certifications include OSHA 30, Site Safety Training (SST), scaffold training, flagger certification, confined spaces, fire safety, LEAD RRP, and NCCER Core Construction
- Opportunity to earn college credit through New York City College of Technology
- Deadline extended: apply for a scholarship no later than March 31
- View the Green Construction Training Program flyer
Green City Force Service Corps – NYCHA Eco-Hubs
6-10 month paid service program | Young adults who reside in NYCHA or low-income housing | New York City
The Green City Force Service Corps is a paid training and service program preparing young adults who reside in NYCHA or low-income housing for careers in the green economy. Corps Members gain hands-on experience in urban agriculture, sustainability, and community education while earning industry certifications and career support.
- Hands-on training in sustainability, urban agriculture, and climate resilience
- Certifications may include OSHA, Site Safety Training (SST), GPRO, and other industry credentials
- Benefits include a monthly stipend, unlimited MetroCard, AmeriCorps Segal Education Award, and career services
- Eligibility (must meet all requirements):
- Age 18–24
- Live in a NYCHA development or other affordable / low-income housing
- High school diploma or GED
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
- No more than 60 college credits and not enrolled in college full-time
- Register for an upcoming Green City Force information session
- Apply to join the Green City Force Service Corps
Alumni Lab – MESA Charter High School
7-week in-person workshop series | New York City
Alumni Lab is a free career exploration and readiness program for high school graduates who are not currently enrolled in college. Participants build skills in resume writing, professional communication, personal finance, and interviewing while exploring pathways into college or job training programs in fields such as culinary arts, healthcare, construction, technology, and business.
- Program cycle: April 21 – June 4, 2026
- Zoom Information sessions: March 24 (10 am), March 26 (1 pm), or April 14 (3 pm)
- Learn more about MESA Alumni Lab
- Contact MESA Alumni Lab
- View the Alumni Lab flyer
Clean Energy Career Connect – New Women New Yorkers
April 13 – May 6 core training | New York City
This free program supports immigrant women interested in launching a career in the clean energy sector. Participants explore career pathways in the green economy, receive guidance on training and certification options, and develop a personalized plan toward employment.
- Program schedule: Mondays and Thursdays, 2 – 5 pm, April 13 through May 6
- Includes six months of follow-up career support, including counseling, referrals to advanced training, capstone opportunities, and job placement assistance
- Register for a Clean Energy Career Connect info session
- View the Clean Energy Career Connect flyer
Little Island Summer Employment – Usher Corps
Summer 2026 | Ages 18–24 | New York City
Applications are now open for Little Island’s Usher Corps programs, paid summer opportunities for young professionals interested in gaining experience in arts and cultural programming. Ushers support front-of-house operations for performances. Participants also receive professional development focused on leadership, communication, and public engagement.
Bilingual Community Health Worker Training
Training Dates: April 2026 – November 2026
Location: In person at LaGuardia Community College, Long Island City, Queens
Application Deadline: March 2026
Description
This free bilingual Community Health Worker (CHW) training prepares New Yorkers to support community members in managing health conditions, navigating healthcare systems, and promoting healthier lives. The program is designed for intermediate English language learners and combines contextualized English instruction with occupational training and hands-on experience.
Participants complete a 16-week in-person contextualized English course, a three-month in-person Community Health Worker training program, along with a 125-hour internship at a healthcare agency and job search support. Graduates earn an industry-recognized certificate from LaGuardia Community College and have the opportunity to earn 9 college credits.
Eligibility Requirements
- Be 18 years or older
- Be an English Language Learner
- Be NYC metro area resident and legally authorized to work in the United States
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Be available to study a minimum of 16 hours per week evenings and weekends and complete 125-hour internship
- Be Covid-19 vaccinated
- Have access to a computer or laptop
How to Apply
Apply online using the Community Health Worker application. Questions? Please contact: ciet@lagcc.cuny.edu or call 718-482-5460. You can spread the word using the Community Health Worker flyer.
KindWork Customer Experience Fellowship
April 15 – May 29, 2026 | Hybrid (Brooklyn)
A free 4-week training program preparing young adults for careers in customer experience and customer success roles. Fellows receive skills training, job placement support, and up to one year of post-placement coaching.
Eligibility: Ages 20–29; review full eligibility requirements
Application deadline: April 9, 2026
Apply: Complete the interest form to attend a March information session
City Tech – Free OSHA and Construction Safety Courses (Spanish-Language)
Remote via Zoom
Free safety training for Spanish-speaking construction workers, including OSHA 30, fall prevention, and scaffold user certification.
Register: City Tech’s application
Program flyer: City Tech Spanish-language safety training flyer
Custom Collaborative – Training Institute
April 2026 Cohort | Garment District (In person)
A free 15-week training program in fashion design, sewing, and entrepreneurship. Participants receive hands-on instruction, leadership development, and a stipend.
Eligibility: Women age 21+ who are SNAP-eligible
Open House dates (11:00 am): March 17, March 18, March 19
Learn more: Apply for the open house
Program flyer: Custom Collaborative April 2026 Open House flyer
Green Construction & Energy Efficiency Training
Training Dates: March 23 – May 15, 2026
Location: Long Island City, Queens
Schedule: Full-time, Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm
Application Deadline: March 2026
Andromeda Community Initiative (ACI) leads a Green Construction & Energy Efficiency training several times each year. This rigorous, hands-on workforce training program is designed to prepare participants for entry-level careers in green construction and building operations. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the program by watching ACI’s program videos.
Individuals interested in applying for the next cohort may complete the interest form here to be notified when applications open. Candidates must attend the full session and have a current resume (PDF or Word doc) to be eligible to interview for this program. The interest form includes this question: “What is the name and email of the person who has referred you to ACI?” You may enter NYCETC and info@nycetc.org as the referring organization.
Career coaches, case managers, and partners, please spread the word with ACI’s program flyer. To learn more or for questions, contact: Lysbeth Leger, Vocational Coordinator at lysbeth.leger@andromedainitiative.org.
Fedcap IMPACT Reentry Program
Open to justice-involved individuals across NYC
The IMPACT Program supports New Yorkers transitioning from the justice system by providing job training, career support, and essential resources. Services include:
- Sector-based training (e.g., OSHA 30, flagger certification)
- Resume and interview prep, work attire, and job placement
- Virtual reality career exploration
- On-site and virtual work readiness services
- Emergency support (cell phones, hygiene kits, gift cards)
Location: Gertz Building, 92-31 Union Hall St, 4th Fl, Jamaica, NY 11433
For questions, more information, or to apply, complete the online recruitment form, email IMPACT@fedcap.org, or call 646-931-2414 (toll-free 855-530-4796). Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and you can spread the word with the IMPACT Program Flyer.
Skills Training, Job Placement, Adult Education and Career Guidance in Brooklyn
St. Nicks Alliance offers comprehensive workforce development services, including skills training, job placement, adult education, and career guidance for youth and adults. They focus on in-demand fields such as construction, HVAC, environmental remediation, healthcare, tech, finance and more, helping over 1,000 individuals annually secure high-wage, career-track jobs. For more information, please visit their website and sign-up for their in-person info sessions, held on a weekly basis in Brooklyn.
College Navigation Services in Brooklyn
The College Connections Initiative (CCI) at the Brooklyn Educational Opportunity Center empowers students and community members to navigate the path to higher education—completely free of charge. Through dynamic college exploration workshops, CCI offers expert guidance on everything from applying to colleges to understanding financial aid. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or returning to school, CCI is here to help you take the next step with confidence. Learn more and apply here.
Sector-Based Training for a Variety of Careers
Brooklyn Workforce Innovations offers free job training through eight sector-based career training programs designed to help low-income New Yorkers access living-wage employment. Their programs offer training in skilled trades such as woodworking, cable installation, CDL driving, film and TV production, affordable housing, and tech customer support. Learn more on their website.
Project Comeback Offers Sector-Based Training and Wraparound Supports for New Yorkers Experiencing Homelessness
Open to New Yorkers who are experiencing homelessness
ACE’s Project Comeback is a workforce development and vocational rehabilitation program that helps New Yorkers gain the educational, interpersonal, and technical skills needed to secure and retain full-time, permanent employment. Trainings include OSHA Construction, Commercial Driver’s Licensing, Forklift Operation, Custodial Maintenance Training, Certified Peer Recovery Coach, and Security Guard Training. ACE also offers paid work experience training, adult education, job-placement services, a life-long aftercare program, and on-site wrap-around support including legal assistance, financial coaching, and wellness programming.
ACE is an HRA-approved program with a 35-hour-per-week commitment. To learn more or make a referral, call (212) 274-0550 x18 or email Emma Dingeldein at edingeldein@acenewyork.org.
Break into Biotech – Genspace
April 12 – June 25, 2026 | Sunset Park, Brooklyn
Break into Biotech is a 3-month training program providing hands-on lab experience, mentorship, networking, and professional development to help learners prepare for careers in New York City’s biotechnology sector. The program includes experiential workshops, project-based learning through Genspace’s membership program, and professional development events. No prior STEM experience is required, and the application is open to adults from diverse backgrounds.
Eligibility: High School Diploma/GED, current NYC resident, two references, and eligible to work in the U.S.
Apply: Break into Biotech Application
Program flyer: Break into Biotech Flyer
Human Services, Culinary, and Employment Training Programs
Project Renewal is actively recruiting for the following programs:
—Employment Training Program: 10 days of soft skills training including resume and interview preparation as well as digital literacy
—Human Services Training: 10 days training designed for individuals with an interest in developing the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to secure employment in the Human Services industry working with various populations.
—Next Step Internship Training Program: Paid internship training for careers in homeless services. 8-week classroom-based and on the job training to prepare for opportunities as Residential Aide, Front Desk, House Manager and/or Maintenance Worker.
—Culinary Arts Training Program: The Culinary Arts Training Program (CATP) is a 12-week intensive training program designed for individuals who express an interest in developing the skills and knowledge needed to work in a kitchen and secure employment in the food service industry.
—Assisted Competitive Employment Program: individualized job placement and support program for adults with mental health diagnosis.
Interested applicants may attend an information session held every Tuesday at 10:00am or 2:00pm in-person at 200 Varick Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10014. To make a referral please email nextstep@projectrenewal.org
College and Career Pathway Services for Formerly Incarcerated People
Open to formerly incarcerated people and those impacted by mass incarceration, ages 18 and older.
The Correctional Education Partnership (CEP) initiative seeks to support the educational goals of formerly incarcerated people and those impacted by mass incarceration to create equitable career pathways and opportunities in a competitive job market. CEP does this by advancing access to high-quality education and training courses that build knowledge in specialized career fields in a holistic, safe, and supportive environment at LaGuardia Community College. Spread the word with the program flyer, and find more information on this program on LaGuardia Community College’s website.
Construction Career Support for NYC Residents with Previous Construction Experience
Open to NYC residents that have previous construction experience and certifications
BSNY provides ongoing virtual recruitment for full-time entry-level construction jobs throughout NYC. Candidates that meet the minimum BSNY requirements and would like to be considered for BSNY construction jobs are invited to complete an application online. After the application is completed, our staff will reach job-seekers for an initial interview which may include an invitation to an upcoming recruitment session.
Looking to improve your skills? Building Skills NY provides Construction Career Accelerator classes in partnership with training providers and employers across the city. Learn more on BSNY’s website and complete the interest form.
Explore free and low-cost NYC career training & certifications for students and young adults in NYC
The New Visions Career Directory connects NYC educators and students to high quality, free and cost-effective training programs, including vocational programs, apprenticeships, certifications, and transition support organizations. The tool also includes a suite of resources supporting young people to navigate postsecondary pathways with confidence.
Tech Training for Young Adults
Open to young adults ages 18-26
NPower provides tuition-free technology training, in-demand IT certifications, access to corporate mentors/networks, paid internships/apprenticeships, and career placement into the tech world for young adults ages 18-26. Jumpstart your tech career in less than 6 months through 16 weeks of hands-on classroom followed by the career placement phase. No tech experience is needed. Apply here.