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.
Dental Assistant Training
Learn chairside assisting, sterilization, patient care, and front office skills.
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 or San Benito County who is committed to training, including:
- Military veterans
- Formerly incarcerated individuals
- People experiencing homelessness
- Anyone unemployed or underemployed and ready for a career change
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 – Submit an Interest Form
Fill out our quick Interest Form to let us know you’re interested.
Step 3 – Attend Information Session
Join a virtual or in-person session to learn more about our free training programs.
Step 4 – Complete Your Application
After the info session, you’ll receive a link to apply for your preferred training course.
Step 5 – Math Assessment
We’ll schedule a quick math assessment and walk you through what’s next.
Step 6 – Meet with the CTE Team
Join us for a short interview to discuss your career goals and make sure the program fits your needs.
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 – Attend Orientation
Join our mandatory in-person orientation before your training begins.
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.
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 EMAIL to learn more about hiring CTE graduates.
- ABC NorCal – Associated Builders and Contractors of Northern California
- LiUNA – Laborers International Union of North America
- JobTrain – Opening pathways to quality careers for people of diverse backgrounds throughout the Bay Area.
- SEI – Strategic Energy Innovations
Community & Industry Partners
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.”
Mission Services of Silicon Valley LLC.