Building Your Skills

Education and Training

The career that interests you may require more education or training than you currently have. It is also likely that once you begin your career, you will want to gain new skills. New skills may be necessary to allow you to advance in your career, accept new responsibilities, and earn more money.

A good place to start learning about opportunities is the Education and Training Page of CareerOneStop. You can also read DB101's Getting a Higher Education.

Apprenticeships, Internships, Volunteering, Mentoring

As discussed in the Explore Your Options Section, there are several excellent ways to learn about different jobs or industries when you are beginning a new career.

Apprenticeships provide a structured way to learn a skilled occupation, craft, or trade. During the apprenticeship, you gain skills through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Get more information about state-approved apprenticeship programs.

Internships are short-term work experiences that allow you to gain practical skills and learn about an occupation in a real-world setting. Get more information about internships.

Volunteering provides an opportunity to contribute to an organization while gaining new skills and experiences. It is an excellent way to gain an understanding of a wide range of careers, particularly in nonprofit and medical settings.

Mentors are people who provide guidance to someone interested in pursuing a career similar to theirs. A mentor can help you understand what it takes to enter a field, provide support while you gain training and search for a position, and give you ongoing support and advice once you are working.

Americorps programs also offer a range of volunteer and work opportunities. Americorps programs can be a great place to start your career because they give you real responsibility, teach valuable skills, and provide several excellent benefits. Learn more about Americorps on their website. Visit ServeMinnesota to learn more about how to do AmeriCorps in Minnesota.

Each of these opportunities is discussed more fully in DB101's Young People and Benefits: Finding a Job article.