Your Path to Independence Starts Here
Need to get your GED or diploma but aren't sure how to start?
Looking for a job but don't know how or where to search?
Need job or vocational training but worried about the cost?
We're here to help with your education, training, job search, resume, and interview prep— and it’s totally FREE!
How We Can Help You
The Career Services + GED Prep Team at the Mesa County Workforce Center is here to help you with:
A Personal Success Plan: We will help you figure out what you want and how to get there, then map out your next moves with support every step of the way.
GED Prep Classes: Instruction, support, and tutoring in your toughest subjects. Learn more here.
Job Readiness: Practical training to prepare you for the job market.
Job Search: Help finding and applying for jobs.
Job Applications: Get the help you need to quickly and confidently complete a job application
Resume Writing: Build a resume that stands out.
Interview Practice: Tips and training to nail that interview.
Computer + Tech Skills: For the workplace and your adult life.
Technical + Vocational Training: Hands-on skills for good-paying jobs
Internships and Apprenticeships: Hands-on experience in high-demand industries.
On-the-Job Training: Earn while you learn.
Financial Assistance: Help with training programs, tuition, and expenses (e.g., gas cards, uniforms, tools).
Career Exploration: Find your strengths and career path.
Career Development: Personalized coaching to help you reach your career goals.
Networking, Referrals + Job Fairs: Connect with employers ready to hire.
Resource Room: Free access to computers, printers, and research tools to get your next job.
Guidance + Mentorship: One-on-one coaching for professional success.
No pressure, just support.
Whether you need education, a better job, or want to explore your career options, we'll help you figure it out.
Learn More About
Getting Your GED
Your GED Journey
We’re here to help you build on your strengths and overcome any challenges that might be holding you back.
Certified teachers are here to guide you towards academic success, while services specialists help with any obstacles that might make it hard to focus on your goals.
Soon you’ll be ready to show the world what you’re made o
The GED Classes
Free: All GED classes are free for every Mesa County resident.
Flexible: Learn at your own pace with class schedules that fit into your life.
Support + Tutoring: Need help with tough subjects like math, reading, or writing? We've got you covered.
Special Programs: If you qualify for WIOA Career Development Services, we can provide additional support like transportation and childcare and make sure you have what you need to reach your goals.
How it works
Reach Out: Fill out a quick form so we can understand what you need. We’ll get back to you within 3 days to start planning your journey.
Meet Your Guide: Talk with a friendly services specialist. Share your goals, challenges, and what you want to achieve. We’re here to help you overcome any challenges holding you back. Be sure to ask questions – your services specialist is here to help.
Make a plan: Find out how to get your GED and explore other services and opportunities to help you reach your goals.
Start Your Classes: When you’re ready, we’ll help you sign up for classes that fit your schedule. Need extra help with tough subjects like math, reading, or writing? We’ve got your back.
Get Extra Help: Need help with reading, writing, or math? We’ve got you covered. If you need help with books, transportation, childcare, or other challenges, just ask. Special programs are available for those who qualify.
Take the Test: Build your confidence with practice tests and get help scheduling your GED exam. We’ll make sure you’re ready and feeling confident on test day.
Celebrate and Plan for Your Future: Once you earn your GED, it’s time to celebrate! We’ll also help you explore your next steps, whether it’s finding a job, continuing your education, or starting a new career path. We’re here to support you as you keep moving forward.
Getting Started
It’s easy to get started with your GED Journey!
Set up an appointment with a Youth Employment Specialist by clicking the button below.
Call or email us if you have questions or need more information. We’re here to help!
Call: 970-257-2216
Email: wfc-ged-staff@mesacounty.us
Let’s turn your challenges into opportunities.
Your GED success is our priority, and we’re here to make sure you have what you need to succeed, every step of the way.
How Career Services + WIOA Can Help You
What is WIOA?
WIOA stands for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. It's a program designed to help young people like you get the skills, training, and support you need to find a good job and build a successful career. If you're between 14 and 24 years old, WIOA can provide extra help, like covering the cost of classes, training programs, or even things like transportation and childcare.
If You Are Out-of-School:
If you're between 16 and 24 years old and not currently in school, WIOA could be the support system you need. Whether you are a young parent, have dropped out of school, are struggling with finances, or are facing issues like homelessness, arrests, or a criminal record, WIOA can help you get back on track by providing resources to help you reach your goals.
If You Are In-School:
If you're between 14 and 21 years old and still attending school, WIOA might be able to help you, too. To qualify, you should have limited financial resources and face challenges like struggling with basic skills, being an English language learner, being homeless, in foster care, or living independently without stable support. If school or planning for your future feels overwhelming because of these challenges, WIOA can provide the help you need to succeed.
Are You Eligible for WIOA Career Development Services?
To be eligible for WIOA, you must be between 14 and 24 years old and be facing specific challenges that make it harder to find a job or stay in school.
These challenges might include:
Dropping out of school
Struggling with math or reading skills (basic skills deficient)
Being an English language learner (ESL)
Having a documented disability
Pregnant or parenting
Being in foster care (now or in the past)
Being homeless or a runaway
Having a misdemeanor or felony record (justice-involved)
Being low-income or from a low-income family
Needing additional assistance to complete an educational program or to secure and hold employment
Services + Benefits
The WIOA Young Adult Program is here to help you succeed in school and your career. Here's a quick look at how we can help:
Education and Training:
Finish high school or get a GED
Job skills training
Internships and apprenticeships (paid and unpaid)
Tuition assistance for classes or training programs
Career Development:
Job placement assistance
Work-search and workplace success skills
Career counseling and exploration
Summer employment opportunities
Support Services:
Childcare and transportation assistance
Clothes for work and interviews (uniforms included)
Tools, computers, and supplies
Help with food and housing
Personal and Leadership Development:
Leadership development
Financial literacy education, money management, budgeting, and saving tips
Guidance and counseling
Mentoring
Ongoing Support:
Follow-up support for up to 12 months after completing the program
How to Apply
Ready to see if WIOA can help you? It’s easy to get started.
Set up an appointment with a Youth Employment Specialist at Mesa County Workforce Center? by clicking the button below.
Call or email us if you have questions or need more information. We’re here to help!
Call: 970-248-0866
Let’s turn your challenges into opportunities.
Think of WIOA Career Development Services as a booster for your future—
whether you need help finishing your GED, learning job skills, improving your reading and writing skills, or finding the right career path, WIOA is here to make it easier.
Connecting Colorado
What is Connecting Colorado?
Connecting Colorado is a website where you can search for jobs, post your resume, and find resources to help with your job search. Your employment specialist will ask you to create an account.
Create a Connecting Colorado Account
You’ll need:
Your Social Security number
A password (8 characters, using only letters and numbers)
Contact info, including an email address (avoid using Yahoo, as it may block job alerts—try Gmail, Outlook, or iCloud)
If you’ve served in the military, have your enlistment and separation dates handy
The types of jobs you're interested in (you can list up to 4)
A list of your skills (add as many keywords as possible to help match you with job openings)
Find a Job
After you’ve registered, you can log in anytime to:
Search for jobs
Post your resume
Apply for positions
Update your profile
And access helpful job search tools in My Tool Box, including:
Resume Review
Pre-Employment Skill Assessments
Virtual Job Shadow platform to view a wide array of occupations
Learn more
Set up an appointment with a Youth Employment Specialist by clicking the button below.
Call or email us if you have questions or need more information. We’re here to help!
Call: 970-248-0866
What to expect:
Everyone's journey is different—there's no one-size-fits-all plan, that is why we are here to find the right fit for you.
Some services have eligibility requirements, and not all services are available for everyone, but we can help you meet your goals in your own way.
Steps to Success
-
1. Reach Out
Call, email, or fill out our easy form. We'll get back to you within 3 days.
-
2. Meet Up
We'll talk about your goals, needs, and opportunities.
-
3. Make a Plan:
Together we'll map out a personalized plan to help you reach your goals, with clear steps that make sense.
-
4. Take Action
Start working on your plan. This might include taking GED classes, getting job training, doing an internship, or applying for jobs. We'll guide you through every step.
-
5. Get Support
As you work through your plan, we will walk with you and make sure you have the resources and support you need.
-
6. Keep Moving Forward
When you've finished the first steps, we'll help you set new goals and keep moving forward.
Your Future. Your Path. Start your journey here.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
The Mesa County Workforce Center is a free one-stop shop where you can get help with finding a job, building your resume, preparing for interviews, and even using computers and other resources. They offer career counseling, job fairs, and workshops to help you reach your goals. Whether you want to do it on your own or need some extra guidance, they’re here to support you.
You can learn more about all the services at the Mesa County Workforce Center by making an appointment, emailing wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us, or calling 970-248-0866.
-
WIOA stands for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. It's a program that helps young people like you get the skills, training, and support you need to find a good job and build a successful career. There are specific eligibility requirements.
To learn more, check out our detailed section on WIOA Career Development, and you can click here to make an appointment, email wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us or call 970-248-0866.
-
KickStart helps young adults (ages 18-24) in Mesa County find paid jobs, internships, and apprenticeships.
If you're out of school and looking for work, KickStart connects you with local businesses that offer real work experience to help you build your resume. You’ll also get one-on-one support with job applications, resumes, interviews, and professional skills development.
To qualify for Kickstart, you also need to be eligible for WIOA.
You’ll need a Colorado ID, Social Security card, and proof that you’re out of school. You’ll also need to create an account at Connecting Colorado.
To find out more about KickStart, click here to make an appointment, email jobservice@mesacounty.us, or call 970-248-7560.
-
Connecting Colorado is an online platform where you can search for jobs, create a resume, and apply for positions all across the state. It's free to use and connects you directly with employers who are hiring in your area.
You'll also find resources to help with job searches and career development. Creating an account is the first step to accessing many services, including those at the Workforce Center.
Find out more by creating your account at Connecting Colorado by making an appointment, emailing wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us, or calling 970-248-0866.
-
An in-demand job is one that employers are actively hiring for and are expected to need more workers for in the future. These jobs usually offer good pay and stability. Examples of in-demand jobs might include healthcare, technology, construction, and skilled trades.
A Youth Employment Specialist can help you learn more about in-demand jobs in Mesa County and connect you with the training and resources you need to qualify for them.
To meet with a Youth Employment Specialist, you can click here to make an appointment, email wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us or call 970-248-0866.
-
Job Corps is a free program that helps young people ages 16-24 get the education and training they need to start a career.
If you're eligible, Job Corps can help you finish high school, get job training, and find work. The program also offers support services like housing, meals, and healthcare to help you succeed while you're learning.
To find out more about Job Corps, click here to make an appointment, email wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us or call 970-248-0866.
-
Find Your Future is a website for Mesa County Youth and Young Adults created by local organizations to provide up-to-date information on transitioning from school to real-world employment.
To find out more about opportunities listed on the Find Your Future website by making an appointment, emailing wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us, or calling 970-248-0866.
-
If you’re unsure where to begin, start by exploring your options.
Come talk to us, and we’ll help you figure out the next steps, whether that’s applying for jobs, getting your GED, or building your resume.
To find out more, click here to make an appointment, email wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us or call 970-248-0866.
-
To apply for a job, you’ll need to fill out an application. Some jobs have online applications, while others may require you to apply in person.
We can guide you through the application process and help make sure everything is filled out correctly.
To find out more, click here to make an appointment, email wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us or call 970-248-0866.
-
Many jobs will ask for a resume. A resume is a simple way to show your skills and experience.
If you’ve never made one before, we can help you create a resume that stands out.
To find out more, click here to make an appointment, email wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us or call 970-248-0866.
-
Dress neatly and professionally when applying for jobs or going to interviews.
We can also help you get the right clothes for the job.
To find out more, click here to make an appointment, email jobservice@mesacounty.us, or call 970-248-7560.
-
Interviews can feel nerve-wracking, but they’re just a conversation about your skills and experiences. You’ll be asked questions about why you want the job and how you’re a good fit.
We offer interview practice, so you can feel confident going in.
To find out more, click here to make an appointment, email wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us or call 970-248-0866.
-
In Colorado, you can start working at age 14, but some jobs have higher age requirements. Check with us or your potential employer to find out the specifics.
You can find out more by making an appointment, emailing wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us, or calling 970-248-0866.
-
In Colorado, you don't need a work permit to get a job. But, if you're 14 or 15 and want to work during school hours, you'll need a school release permit. You can get this from the school district superintendent’s office.
To find out more, click here to make an appointment, email jobservice@mesacounty.us, or call 970-248-7560.
-
Yes! Every employer understands that everyone has to start somewhere. If you don’t have work experience, focus on the skills you have, like being reliable, hardworking, or a fast learner.
We can help you showcase those strengths in your resume and interviews.
To find out more, click here to make an appointment, email wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us or call 970-248-0866.
-
Yes, there are tools and resources that can help you figure out what career might be right for you.
We can connect you with career assessments, workshops, and one-on-one counseling to explore your options.
You can find out more by making an appointment, emailing wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us, or calling 970-248-0866.
-
That’s okay! It’s normal not to know exactly what you want to do right away. We can help you explore different careers and find something that matches your skills and interests.
We’re here to guide you as you figure it out. Find out more by making an appointment.
Click here to make an appointment, email wfc-careerdevelopment@mesacounty.us, or call 970-248-0866.
Need More Help?
Career Development Services and GED Programs are just one way the teams at Mesa County Passages and Workforce Center can support you. Check out these other resources and services:
-
Food + Grocery Assistance
Resources to help you access nutritious food.
-
Medicaid + Healthcare
Healthcare options for your health and wellness.
-
Cash Assistance
Financial support to help you meet your basic needs.
-
Child Care + Child Support
Help getting child care and child support.
-
Mental Health + Crisis Services
Resources for managing mental health and crises.
If you are being abused, or neglected, or need urgent help, please call our hotline at 970-242-1211.
