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Mayor Bowser Launches Career Coach DC Program

Thursday, July 7, 2022
$3.4 Million Career Coach DC Program to Serve Over 5,000 Residents Annually with Personalized Supports

(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the launch of the Career Coach DC program and highlighted investments in District programs to help residents progress in their careers from internships, summer employment, to training and supports. Career Coach DC, created through a $3.4 million investment, offers career assessment, personalized coaching, and supports that connect DC residents to education, training, and employment opportunities. Career Coach DC is free for DC residents 18 years and older who have not yet completed a 4-year college degree, or those who are low- or moderate-income.

“We have been very focused on finding new ways to connect DC residents to good-paying careers in DC – and that’s why we’re launching Career Coach DC,” said Mayor Bowser. “Everyone needs the support, advice, and guidance of others as we progress in our careers. Having a career coach will be the missing piece some residents need to get their fair shot – to help them navigate the opportunities and programs that best fit their strengths, interests, and career goals.”

The Career Coach DC program is funded to support up to 5,000 DC residents annually over the next two years. Residents can connect with Career Coach DC and sign-up for virtual, in-person, or hybrid services by visiting one of their service locations, registering online at careercoach.dc.gov, by calling 202-989-1002, or by emailing [email protected].

Career Coach DC was launched by the District’s Workforce Investment Council (WIC) through an initial $2.4 million grant to KRA Corporation, and in partnership with the John and Mary R. Markle Foundation through its Rework America Alliance initiative. Markle supported efforts to enhance the effectiveness of career coaches in multiple states and cities by providing training and resources to help career coaches better serve job seekers in local communities.

The Mayor also announced the launch of Tech 101 Workshops, managed by the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO). DC residents can now visit select DC Public Libraries to learn new skills on their smartphones or tablets for free. Workshops will be taught by Digital Ambassadors participating in the Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP). DC residents are encouraged to attend to learn new ways to use and take care of their devices. Topics that will be covered include how to send text messages, set up an email account, use the cloud for document and photo storage, and how to stay safe online (cyber hygiene basics).

The workshops run through Thursday, August 4 and each class will be held between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, and 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Thursdays. Attendees can come anytime during the scheduled hours to receive training and support. A full schedule is available here.

“Many DC residents lack the technical skills to participate in the digital age, creating a barrier to opportunities that the rest of us take advantage of,” said Lindsey Parker, Chief Technology Officer. “Our goal with Tech 101 Workshops is to remove the frustrations some residents face when learning new devices. We hope our young MBSYEP participants will also learn new skills while helping their community and perhaps sparking an interest in careers in tech.”

The Tech 101 Workshops are free for all DC residents. Interested residents can text ‘TECH101’ to 69866 to express interest or show up at any participating library on the day of the event – no registration is necessary.

Devices will not be provided; residents should bring their own smartphone or tablet for each workshop. A translator can be available upon request, please email [email protected].

Social Media:
Mayor Bowser Twitter: @MayorBowser
Mayor Bowser Instagram: @Mayor_Bowser
Mayor Bowser Facebook: facebook.com/MayorMurielBowser
Mayor Bowser YouTube: https://www.bit.ly/eomvideos