Below is a current list (as of October 16, 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.
City Tech Hemodialysis Technician Certification Training
Rolling admission | 8-week in-person classes
City Tech’s new Hemodialysis Technician training program prepares participants for a rewarding healthcare career, with scholarships available thanks to funding from SBS. The comprehensive 8-week program combines in-person instruction, hands-on clinical training, internship placement assistance, career coaching, and job placement support. Graduates of the program will be prepared to take the nationally recognized BONENT Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHT) examination.
- City Tech anticipates offering 10 cohorts of 20 students each between Fall 2026 and Fall 2027
- Participants must be NYC residents, 18 years or older, authorized to work in the U.S., and have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Experience in healthcare is a plus, but not required
- To apply, fill out this application form
- Selected applicants will be invited to participate in an interview, admissions assessment, and/or orientation before final scholarship awards are made
- For questions, reach out to Dania Anderson at dania.anderson84@citytech.cuny.edu or Gajtana Simonovski at gajtana.simonovski39@citytech.cuny.edu
Ready NYC: CPR + Choking Response for Nonprofit and Community Workers
Tuesday, October 27 | 4–5:30 p.m. | In person
Safety Saints is hosting a free, hands-on workshop for nonprofit and community professionals covering CPR, automated external defibrillator (AED) use, and choking response. Participants will learn practical skills to help them respond to emergencies with greater confidence.
- Location: Safety Saints, 131 Varick Street, Suite 909, New York, NY 10013
- This is a non-certification workshop for nonprofit and community workers
- Participation is limited to two staff members per organization
- Advance registration is required
SUNY Queens EOC College Connections Initiative Workshops
October 28, November 4, and November 11, 2026 | 6–7:30 p.m. | Online
SUNY Queens Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) is offering three tuition-free online workshops to help participants navigate college admissions, applications, and financial aid. The workshops are open to high school juniors and seniors, adult learners, first-time college goers, and anyone interested in attending college.
- October 28: College 101: Everything You Need to Know Made Easy—an introduction to college admissions and navigating college
- November 4: Guidance on completing the Common Application, CUNY and SUNY applications, and other college applications
- November 11: Guidance on completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and New York State financial aid applications, including TAP
- To join, visit the Queens EOC workshop page or use Zoom meeting ID: 863 3159 3664 | Passcode: 000460
Project Renewal Next Step Internship Program
Next cohort begins in December | 8-week in-person program
Project Renewal’s Next Step Internship Program is an intensive, full-time, 8-week training program that blends professional classroom instruction with paid, hands-on experience in a NYC homeless shelter or supportive housing facility. Participants will gain essential skills and experience in roles like Residential Aide, Front Desk/House Manager, or Maintenance Worker; and jumpstart a career in the human services field. The program includes:
- A paid internship ($17/hour)
- Opportunities to earn credentials in Narcan administration, Fire Guard (F02), and community mental wellness
- A certificate of completion for the NYC Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
- Resume and interview prep and job placement help, digital literacy, and financial coaching
- Participants must be 18 years or older, authorized to work in the U.S., have a high school diploma or GED, have valid I-9 documents, and be at least 120 days sober from any substance use
- To begin the application process, attend an upcoming required info session at Project Renewal’s office (200 Varick St., 9th Floor) — no RSVP required
- Friday, October 16 at 10 a.m.
- Thursday, October 22 at 10 a.m.
Beyond Code Collective Catalyst Labs – AI Training for Adults
November 19 | 90-minute virtual training open to all adults
Beyond Code Collective’s Catalyst Labs is a free, virtual, hands-on AI training experience designed for adults who are curious about AI, including those with no previous technical experience. Open to adults ages 18+ in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Detroit, New York, and Washington, D.C., the 90-minute training will explore how AI works, how it shows up in everyday life, and who is building these systems. Participants will then get hands-on experience building something themselves using a “vibe coding” platform.
- Upcoming sessions:
- November 19 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
- Register for the next session here
New Women New Yorkers — Climate Lens: Immigrant Women’s Stories
November 9 to December 7 | Mondays, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Manhattan
New Women New Yorkers’ Climate Lens: Immigrant Women’s Stories program is now enrolling immigrant women interested in exploring climate storytelling, community resilience, and leadership development through photography and writing. Participants will take part in a free, in-person 5-workshop series to learn photography and writing skills, tell personal climate and community stories through images and words, and strengthen communication skills to support both personal and professional growth. The program culminates in a public exhibit of participants’ work.
- No prior photography or writing experience needed; just bring your phone and your story
- Participants must be able to attend all of the sessions, held in person at NWNY’s community hub near Washington Square Park in Manhattan
- To begin the application process, complete this form, and attend a required info session:
- In person: Monday, October 19 at 6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30)
- For questions, email Andrea at andrea@nywomenimmigrants.org
Project Renewal Care Corps Behavioral Health Training
December 14 to January 29 | Classroom instruction at Project Renewal and hands-on training at NYC Health + Hospitals Jacobi Medical Campus in the Bronx
Project Renewal’s Care Corps is a 7-week training program designed for individuals who are passionate about mental health and helping others. Participants will learn the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to support individuals living with serious mental illness while building the confidence and professional competencies necessary to pursue careers in the healthcare and behavioral health fields. To be eligible for Care Corps, applicants must meet all of the following requirements to be considered:
- Be a New York City resident 18 years of age or older, authorized to work in the United States, and possess a high school diploma or equivalent (proof will be required)
- Have at least four months of prior direct patient care or related experience, such as:
- Crisis monitoring
- Residential aide work
- Peer or community support roles
- Other similar direct service positions
- To begin the application process, you must first register for and attend a Care Corps Information Session
- After the session, eligible applicants will complete an online application. Select applicants will then move on to an interview and intake appointment, and complete a background check
- For any questions, email carecorps@projectrenewal.org
COOP Careers Fellowship
Spring 2027 program runs from February 17 to June 9 | Priority deadline: November 25
Open to first-generation and low-income college graduates who are currently unemployed or underemployed, the COOP Careers Fellowship provides career support and community. Fellows meet most weeknights in cohorts of 18 to 20 peers, led by alumni of the program. Fellows will gain technical skills, practice interviewing and networking, meet potential employers, and access career events with COOP’s employer partners.
- 3 program tracks: Data Analytics, Digital Marketing, and Financial Services
- To begin the application process, complete the COOP Careers Fellowship Spring 2027 Interest Form
Project Renewal Employment Training Program
Next cohort begins on November 9 | 10-day, in-person program
Project Renewal’s Employment Training Program (ETP) is a non‑sector training track focused on building strong transferable skills — both soft and hard — including professionalism, interview preparation, digital literacy, workplace communication, and other foundational skills that support success in a wide range of roles. Employment outcomes for ETP participants vary and may include customer service, administrative support, maintenance/porter positions, entry‑level human services roles, cashier, retail, and more.
- For more information, Project Renewal hosts information sessions every Tuesday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at 200 Varick Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10014. Registration is not required and walk-ins are welcome.
- To receive more details, complete this interest form
- For questions, email nextstep@projectrenewal.org
The Information Lab — The Data School Program
Next cohort begins in January | 28-month, full-time, paid data analysis training and rotations
The Data School’s training program is a full-time 28-month contract, where they will pay you to learn about data and technology from some of the greatest data experts across the world. The program begins with a four-month intensive training at The Data School’s office at Civic Hall in Union Square. Following the training, you’ll showcase your newfound knowledge and skills in a series of placements as a data consultant with some of the biggest and most recognized blue-chip clients in the U.S. The training and consulting focus on two software programs, Tableau and Alteryx, which you can excel at without prior coding knowledge. With support from your coaches and the wider team, you will learn broader skills about storing, managing, and presenting data, as well as personal skills to help boost your own confidence in becoming an exceptional consultant.
- Apply for The Data School’s next cohort
- Note the steps in the application process, including choosing a dataset and creating a dashboard
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with each new cohort beginning about every two months
LaGuardia Community College Child Development Associate Program
October 19 to February 13 | Tuesday & Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings in Long Island City, Queens
LaGuardia Community College’s 150-Hour Infant/Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) Program prepares participants for careers working with infants and toddlers ages 0 to 36 months. The program combines comprehensive classroom instruction with hands-on fieldwork experience in early childhood settings and prepares participants to pursue the nationally recognized Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential.
Participants will receive:
- Instruction in child development, creating safe and healthy learning environments, supporting children’s social and emotional development, working with families, professionalism, and other essential competencies for early childhood educators
- Support in completing the requirements associated with the CDA credentialing process
- Opportunities for fieldwork with partnering childcare providers
- To enroll in the program, register here by October 19
The New Jewish Home’s SkillSpring Program
New cohort begins in mid-October | Full-time, in-person training at The New Jewish Home and Lehman College
SkillSpring is dedicated to creating career opportunities for young adults by providing comprehensive workforce training and support. Applications are open for their upcoming Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program, which is scheduled to begin in mid-October. This program is offered at no cost to eligible participants and is designed for individuals between the ages of 18 and 27. In addition to CNA training, participants receive professional development support, career readiness coaching, and assistance with job placement opportunities.
- Applicants must be between the ages of 18-27 and have a valid NYS ID, a high school diploma/GED, social security information, proof of address, birth certificate, and a COVID-19 vaccine
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis
- To apply for the SkillSpring program, complete this application form
Rebuilding Together NYC’s Careers in Construction
6-week pre-apprenticeship program, with training and certification
Rebuilding Together NYC’s free Careers in Construction program prepares New York City residents for family-sustaining careers in the union construction trades. Participants receive hands-on training, professional development, job-placement support, and industry-recognized credentials, including OSHA 30, NYC Site Safety Training, Flagger Safety Training, and Home Builders Institute Pre-Apprenticeship Certification. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, live in New York City, have a high school diploma or GED, be authorized to work in the United States, and be prepared to pursue a full-time construction career.
- To begin the process, complete the online application and attend a required virtual information session, held on the first Monday and third Wednesday of each month
- For more information, visit the Careers in Construction webpage, or email amani.freeman@rebuildnyc.org
Manhattan EOC Classes and Training Programs
Various programs beginning this fall | Harlem (163 W. 125th St., 15th Floor)
Manhattan EOC is currently recruiting for the fall semester and is committed to helping adult learners achieve their educational and career goals. They’re actively recruiting students for ESOL classes, High School Equivalency (HSE) preparation, as well as career training programs. These programs provide job-ready skills and opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications, including pathways such as Electronic Health Records (EHR) and the Google IT Support Professional Certificate.
- To apply, complete the online application and submit the required documents
- To learn more or for enrollment assistance and guidance, walk-in visits are always welcome
- If you’d like to refer anyone to Manhattan EOC’s programs, fill out this referral form
Emerge Career & MOCJ’s Next Mile NYC
Rolling admissions | Careers in commercial trucking and diesel technician
Emerge Career and the NYC Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ)’s Next Mile NYC program connects justice-involved New Yorkers to careers in transportation, offering individualized coaching, comprehensive wraparound services, and placement into high-paying jobs. The program’s core vocations are Commercial Trucking (CDL Class A license) and Diesel Technician, with more coming in future iterations. To apply, participants must be:
- Justice-involved: formerly or currently incarcerated, arrested, on probation, or have been through an ATI program
- A resident of the 5 boroughs
- Over the age of 21
- Have a current driver’s license
- Apply for the Next Mile NYC program
CUNY School of Labor & Urban Studies: LEAP to Teacher Program
Career advancement and support for education workers
CUNY’s LEAP to Teacher (LTT) program helps paraprofessionals, teachers, daycare workers, and other school personnel advance their careers, offering free support services toward pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree or a certificate program in teaching or any field of study. Participants can receive assistance at all stages of their education journey, from pre-admission to graduation. Services include pre-admission advisement and classes (including college preparation and ESOL classes), academic and career support, scholarships, teaching certification exam preparation workshops, professional development, and more.
To be part of the program, you must be:
- Employed in a public, charter, private school or licensed daycare setting that serves students from birth through grade 12.
- Note: After-school staff working for non-profit organizations and employees of small private specialty schools (like dance, art, music or sport schools) are not eligible.
- Enrolled or interested in applying to an undergraduate or graduate program at one of the LTT-partnering CUNY colleges: BMCC, Bronx Community College, Brooklyn College, College of Staten Island, the CUNY School of Labor & Urban Studies (non-teaching degrees), Lehman College, Medgar Evers College, Queens College, and New York City College of Technology (City Tech)
- To learn more about the program, sign up to attend a monthly open house, or fill out the inquiry form to set up a Zoom or in-person meeting
- For questions: email LTT@slu.cuny.edu, or call 646-313-8532
Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow Training Programs
Various programs beginning this fall | Sunset Park or Bushwick locations
Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow (OBT) is recruiting for its fall classes and training programs for youth and adults.
- Programs offered at its Sunset Park location: GED prep, Construction Forward pre-apprenticeship program for skilled trades, Certified Nurse Assistant training, TechBridge IT training
- Programs offered at its Bushwick location: GED prep, ESOL classes, Pharmacy Technician training
- To learn more:
- Attend an in-person open house (every Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; no RSVP needed)
- Or join a virtual info session (every Monday or Friday, noon to 1 p.m.; no RSVP needed)
- To begin the application process, complete the interest form
- If you’d like to refer anyone to OBT’s programs, fill out this referral form
Fifth Avenue Committee & BWI’s Sunset Park Bridge Program CDL Training
Now recruiting for upcoming class cycles | Sunset Park, Brooklyn
Fifth Avenue Committee’s Sunset Park Bridge Program, in partnership with Brooklyn Workforce Innovations’ Red Hook on the Road, offers a free training pathway designed to help local residents master the skills needed to enter the high-demand commercial driving industry and receive their CDL Class B license.
- The comprehensive program walks with students every step of the way, from mastering complex technical vehicle inspections and permit preparation; to behind-the-wheel training, Class B licensing, and assistance with job placement
- Through structured peer-to-peer study sessions and dedicated professional mentorship, our cohorts build the skills, vocabulary, and confidence to pass their exams with flying colors and secure stable, rewarding careers
- Participants must be age 21 and up, a permanent resident or U.S. citizen, have conversational English skills, and a valid U.S. driver’s license for two years
- Ready to take the wheel of your future? Learn more about upcoming class cycles by calling or messaging Fifth Avenue Committee on WhatsApp at 929-732-1021
City Tech Medical Billing & Coding Training for English Language Learners
In-person program beginning this fall | Morning or evening sessions
City Tech’s medical billing and coding training program for English language learners prepares participants for entry-level roles in health care administration. The coursework will equip participants with the knowledge and essential skills related to medical claims processing, maintenance of health records, and the assigning of codes for diagnoses and medical procedures. Upon successful completion of the program, students will take the NHA Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam, at no cost to them.
- Classes meet Monday to Friday
- Morning or evening sessions available: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., or 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
- Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have intermediate to advanced English comprehension
- To begin the application process and to register for an information session complete the Medical Billing & Coding Training for English Language Learners application form
- For questions, call 718-552-1126, or text 929-265-1374
CAMBA HVAC & Refrigeration Training
Rolling application deadline | In person in Brooklyn
This free and comprehensive training opens up career opportunities in HVAC and refrigeration. After 72 hours of training, participants will be able to apply for the relevant certifications in the field. CAMBA provides financial support for public transit and licensing, as well as resume, interview, and job placement assistance.
- Questions: Email workforce@camba.org
- No deadline to apply; applications are accepted on a rolling basis
- Register for the CAMBA HVAC & Refrigeration Training
CAMBA Security Guard Training
Rolling application deadline | In person in Brooklyn
CAMBA’s security guard training covers topics including customer service, effective communication, crime prevention, report writing, emergency response, terrorism awareness, and a specialized course in providing security for the human services field. At the conclusion of the training, participants will receive their 8-hour and 16-hour security guard certificates, as well as job placement assistance.
- Questions: Email workforce@camba.org
- Applicants must be NYC residents, have a valid NYS photo ID, a high school diploma or GED, be available to start immediately, and pass a background check
- No deadline to apply; applications are accepted on a rolling basis
- Register for the CAMBA Security Guard Training
Build AI Skills for Your Career with IBM SkillsBuild
Virtual, take anytime at your own pace
Looking to strengthen your job readiness? IBM SkillsBuild offers free, self-paced learning designed to help you build in-demand skills and advance your career. Earn digital credentials from IBM to share with employers and on LinkedIn—no prior experience required.
Featured Course: Getting Started with Artificial Intelligence
In this beginner-friendly course, you will:
- Build a practical understanding of artificial intelligence
- Learn the basics of Large Language Models
- Use generative AI responsibly through effective prompt-writing
This course is a great fit for learners looking to upskill, pivot careers, or stand out in today’s hiring market, especially as AI becomes part of nearly every job function. Create a free account to access the course.
Train to become a restaurant cook — NYC Department of Small Business Services
First Course NYC is an apprenticeship program for eligible New Yorkers who are passionate about starting a foodservice career in a demanding NYC restaurant kitchen, and are willing and able to commit to full-time training and employment.
- Eight weeks of free, hands-on culinary training led by experienced restaurant professionals, preparing you for entry into a restaurant kitchen
- Earn the NYC Food Protection Certificate
- Work and continue to learn as a paid, full-time employee (apprentice) in a demanding restaurant kitchen
- An opportunity to start your culinary career in a respected NYC restaurant
- Learn more about eligibility for First Course NYC
- Start the application process by attending the First Course NYC information session
Brooklyn Networks – Low-Voltage Cabling Training at Brooklyn Workforce Innovations
Information Sessions in fall 2026 | Brooklyn, NY
A technical training program preparing participants for careers in low-voltage cabling, including installation and maintenance of telecommunications and data systems.
- Training in installation of voice, data, and fiber optic systems
- Career pathways in telecommunications and infrastructure
- Register for a Brooklyn Networks information session
- Learn more about the Brooklyn Networks program
- Questions: Email Brooklyn Workforce Innovations
Tech Fundamentals & Networking and Systems Administration – NPower
Open to young adults ages 18-26, veterans and military spouses, NPower provides tuition-free technology training, in-demand IT certifications, access to corporate mentors and networking opportunities, paid internships/apprenticeships, and career placement into the tech world for young adults and military veterans/spouses. Jumpstart your tech career in less than 6 months through FREE technology training and career readiness. No tech experience is needed. Our programs include:
- Tech Fundamentals
- Networking and Systems Administration
- Start the NPower application
IMPACT Reentry Program – Fedcap
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
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.
Sector-Based Training for a Variety of Careers – Brooklyn Workforce Innovations
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 for New Yorkers Experiencing Homelessness – ACE
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.
College and Career Pathway Services for Formerly Incarcerated People – LaGuardia Community College
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 – Building Skills NY
Open to NYC residents that have previous construction experience and certifications
Building Skills NY (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.
Additional resources to connect to training and jobs 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.
- New York City’s public libraries are an important access point for job seekers, offering free workshops, resume support, and career resources throughout the year. Explore upcoming programs from the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library.
- Visit New York City’s careers website and New York State’s careers website to find jobs, hiring events, training programs, and information about working for the City or State, along with NYC civil service exams and NYS civil service exams.
- Apprenticeships provide an opportunity to earn while you learn in fields ranging from the building trades to fashion to data analytics. The New York State Department of Labor posts a partial list of apprenticeships currently enrolling, along with a directory of Registered Apprenticeship sponsors across New York State. Need help finding an apprenticeship? Contact a local apprenticeship office, email ATCO@labor.ny.gov, or visit a Workforce1 Career Center to speak with a career counselor.
- NYCHA’s Office of Resident Economic Empowerment & Sustainability (REES) supports residents to increase their income and assets through programs, policies, and partnerships. REES works to connect any interested NYCHA resident with services through our partners. Visit the Programs Near Me page to learn more about partners and their eligibility requirements. You can also visit the Events Calendar to browse for upcoming recruitment activities.