The PA CareerLink® at Luzerne and Schuylkill Counties supports employers looking to meet their hiring needs and connect job seekers with resources they need to secure long-term employment. Follow along for local employer spotlights and updates on training opportunities and more available at your local PA CareerLink locations.
Personalized Career and Training Services
Have you thought about returning to school or gaining new skills to move into a new career? PA CareerLink® offers programs that may help cover the cost of training and education so you can take the next step toward a rewarding career.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a federal program designed to strengthen the nation’s workforce by helping individuals secure stable, full-time employment with sustainable wages. In Luzerne and Schuylkill Counties, WIOA supports residents who are seeking new job opportunities, especially those who have experienced job loss or are facing barriers to employment.
WIOA is particularly helpful for individuals who have been laid off, affected by business closures, impacted by economic changes, or transitioning from self-employment. The program provides personalized career and training services to help participants re-enter the workforce quickly and successfully.
Priority for services is given to individuals receiving public assistance, low-income individuals, and those who need to improve basic skills. Participants may receive support with job searching, career planning, workforce preparation, and both classroom and work-based training opportunities.
Who may be eligible for training and education assistance?
Adults and dislocated workers who:
- Are 18 years of age or older
- Are a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the United States
- Reside in Luzerne or Schuylkill County
- Meet selective service requirements, if applicable
- Meet locally established income guidelines (based on federal poverty and lower living standard income levels)
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Meet at least one of the following criteria:• Have been laid off or received a notice of layoff or termination
• Lost employment due to a business closure or substantial downsizing
• Were self-employed and are now unemployed due to economic conditions
• Are a displaced homemaker
• Are the spouse of an active-duty military member who lost employment due to relocation - Meet other requirements as defined by law
What training programs are covered?
Training must be in a High Priority Occupation and listed on Pennsylvania’s Eligible Training Provider List. Currently, there are dozens of approved training programs available in Luzerne and Schuylkill Counties. A full list can be found at www.pacareerlink.pa.gov.
How do I get started?
Getting started is easy. Contact your local PA CareerLink® office to schedule an appointment with a staff member who can explain the program and determine your eligibility. You can visit an office in person, call, or complete an intake form online.
PA CareerLink® is committed to helping NEPA residents gain the skills and credentials needed for family-sustaining careers right here in our region. For more information, contact your local office:
Hazleton: 75 N. Laurel Street | https://careerlinkhazleton.org | (570) 459-3854
Pottsville: 203–205 E. Arch Street | https://careerlinkpottsville.org | (570) 622-5235
Wilkes-Barre: 32 E. Union Street | https://careerlinkwilkesbarre.org | (570) 822-1101
Article updated from its original version published on 2/20/25.
