Resources
Whether you’re an employer, a job seeker or you know someone who is looking for work, here are some resources you might find helpful.
Video resources
For students
Whatcom County employers hope you’ll consider working at their companies as you plan to enter the workforce. Here’s why.
Big money, no debt. “I don’t want to sit at a desk all day and work on a computer. I want to do more hands-on work, so I thought the best way to do that was being a plumber or an electrician or a welder.”
Career aptitude test: Take this online test (5 to 10 minutes) and you’ll receive recommendations for careers that are a good match for you.
Holland Codes is an aptitude test that helps people just like you narrow down career options. This website can help you learn what type of work environments match your personality. Take the test! Your results might be surprising.
You should know: “Some 30 million jobs in the United States that pay an average of $55,000 per year don’t require bachelor’s degrees.” High-paying trade jobs sit empty while high school grads line up for university.
Can you picture yourself working at any of these large employers in Whatcom County?
Check out this cool resource! Explore careers, view job trends, find education and training via Washington Career Bridge.
You can search the entire State of Washington for apprenticeship programs, but we recommend that you search by county, narrowing the options down to just Whatcom. You are needed right here in your hometown.
Job Corps offers tuition free training that can connect you with the skills and education you need to get the career you want.
People just like you help make cool stuff in Whatcom County! Here’s a list of products manufactured by local employers. Want to help?
Avoid scams, avoid wasting your time. Here’s how to choose a private training school in Washington state.
Search for Whatcom County private career training schools on this website.
For influencers
“We are going to stop telling our kids that a four-year degree is the only path to success.” -Governor Jay Inslee. Learn more about career-connected learning.
What is career-connected learning, and why is it critical to the workforce of the future?
Teens are familiar with “career clusters.” Are you?
“People are starting to understand that maybe a traditional four-year degree does not always translate into a career.”
The Core Plus program helps high school students across Washington, including in Whatcom County, learn to build airplanes, boats, buildings – and their futures. Let high school students know about this hands-on training opportunity or ask your high school if they will participate.
For employers
Get help training the workforce of the future in your Whatcom County company.
Workforce development programs and incentives for employers.
Tax credits related to adding new employees that your business may qualify for.
Employer grants and loans for workforce development.
How to start an apprenticeship program at your Whatcom County business.
Employer’s playbook for building an apprenticeship program.
Build your workforce with an apprenticeship program.
U.S. Small Business Administration: How to set up an internship program.