Job Training & Career Pathways
Career Technical Education (CTE) Program
No-cost Training for a Life-Changing Career
Ready to start a better career? Our Career Technical Education (CTE) courses prepare you for high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand careers through hands-on training and real-world learning experiences – at no cost to you.
These short-term courses are designed to open doors. You’ll gain the skills, certifications, and confidence to launch a stable, well-paying career that transforms your future and supports long-term success for you and your family.
Launch Your Career in High-Demand Fields
Our free career training programs in San Jose and Silicon Valley prepare students of all ages for entry-level roles in industries actively hiring skilled workers:
CONSTRUCTION & TRADES
Construction Training
Build foundational skills in construction, tools and safety.
Electrician Technician Training
Learn electrical skills and safety procedures for residential and commercial work.
Facilities Maintenance Training
Develop building maintenance and workplace safety skills.
AUTOMOTIVE
Automotive Repair Training (VR Simulation)
Gain hands-on experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles using advanced VR training tools.
HEALTHCARE
Medical Assistant Training
Prepare for healthcare roles with clinical and administrative patient care, and training.
Job-Ready Training from Industry Experts
Taught by experienced industry professionals, our high-impact courses combine technical training with real-world experience, so you graduate prepared to thrive from day one.
What You’ll Receive
- Free tuition for short-term, trade-specific training programs
- Hands-on experience taught by industry professionals
- Career readiness workshops covering resume writing, interview preparation and workplace skills
- Industry certifications including OSHA 10, EPA 608, CPR/First Aid, and more
- Ongoing career coaching during your program and after graduation
- Direct employment connections through our industry partnerships in Silicon Valley
Who Qualifies for Free Career Training?
Our courses are open to anyone living in Santa Clara County who is committed to training, including:
- Military veterans
- Formerly incarcerated individuals
- People experiencing homelessness
- Anyone who are unemployed or underemployed and ready for a career change
- Age 18 or older
- Authorized to work in the U.S.
- Resident of Santa Clara County*
If justice-impacted: not currently awaiting trial or sentencing for a charge that could result in incarceration
Able to learn and communicate effectively in English**
*We will consider residents of adjacent counties (San Benito, San Mateo, Alameda, and Santa Cruz) for enrollment on a space-available basis and provided other requirements are met.
**All of our courses are taught exclusively in English, and unfortunately, we don’t have the capacity to provide translation for those who cannot learn and communicate in English.
Not sure if you qualify?
If you’re facing challenges in any of these areas or have questions about your specific situation, please reach out to us via email: cte@goodwillsv.org. Our team is here to talk through your options and may be able to connect you with resources to help you get ready for a future session.
How to Enroll in CTE Courses
Step 1 – Explore Training Programs
Check out our classes, course requirements, and program details to find the right career path.
Step 2 – Complete and Submit Your Application
Complete the application here.
Step 3 – Attend Information Session
If you meet our eligibility requirements, you will be invited via email to sign up for an upcoming Information Session to learn more about our free training programs. These are held in-person at 1600 Technology Drive in San Jose.
Step 4 – Take Math Assessment
At the conclusion of the Information Session, if you wish to continue with enrollment, you will take a program-specific math test. (We strongly encourage you to take this test while you are on site for the Information Session. Alternatively, you can schedule another time to come in to take your Math test.)
Step 5 – Meet with the CTE Team
If you pass your math test, join us for a short interview to discuss your career goals and make sure the program fits your needs. There you will also sign a Background Check Consent Form. (If you do not pass the math test, you can arrange to re-take it one time.)
Step 7 – Background Check
We run a background check. Don’t worry, we’re a second-chance employer and training provider, and results won’t automatically affect your eligibility.
Step 8 – Receive Enrollment Decision
The CTE team will notify you of your enrollment status and other logistics no later than two weeks prior to the start date of your preferred course.
Step 9 – Begin Your Career Training
Start your training with full support and receive ongoing coaching and job search guidance from day one through graduation and beyond.
Beyond Individual Success
When you succeed, our entire community benefits:
- Graduates earn higher wages and build financial stability
Reduced reliance on public assistance
Increased tax revenues strengthen the local economy
Employers gain the skilled workforce they need
PROGRAM IMPACT
- 200+ individuals completed no-cost career training in 2024.
- $23.84/hour average wage earned by CTE graduates.
Employers: Hire Skilled, Job-Ready Talent
Looking for reliable, motivated employees? Our graduates are trained, certified, and ready to contribute.
Contact us at cte@goodwillsv.org to learn more about hiring CTE graduates.
SUCCESS STORY:
Kevin B. – Electrical Fundamentals Graduate
“Thanks to this program, I gained the skills and certifications I needed to land a $32/hr job at Royal Electric. Be on time, pay attention, and keep striving.”
Khoa V. – HVAC Training Graduate
“With my background in craftsmanship, HVAC was a natural fit. The program gave me the technical knowledge and confidence to secure a career that supports my family.”
Tyrus S. – HVAC Graduate
“I was working in agriculture but needed a change. Thanks to Goodwill, I now have a stable job in facilities maintenance. You get what you give—show up and give it your all.”
