He dreams of a rewarding career path. We’ll connect him to opportunities that make it possible.
CareerReady ATL is a youth-centered workforce development ecosystem powered by United Way of Greater Atlanta. Through this innovative youth apprenticeship program model, CareerReady ATL creates, funds, and supports paid apprenticeships in high-demand industries, helping young people become career ready with real-world experience, professional skills, and clear pathways to economic mobility and long-term growth.
United Way of Greater Atlanta believes apprenticeship is one of the most effective youth workforce development strategies because it:
- Expands access to in‑demand, high‑wage careers
- Provides hands-on work experience that builds professional and technical skills
- Enables youth to earn industry‑recognized credentials or degrees without taking on debt
- Allows participants to earn while they learn, so they can provide for themselves and their families
- Builds social capital by connecting youth with employers, mentors, and professional networks
We prioritize access to apprenticeships for youth who are:
- Low-income
- In foster care or formerly in foster care
- Incarcerated or formerly incarcerated
- LGBTQ+
- First-generation Americans
- Young parents
Powering Growth and Sustainability
CareerReady ATL partners are building the systems needed to scale high-quality apprenticeship programs for youth workforce development, ensuring more young people across our region are ready for what’s next.
Funding Partners
Program Partners
Atlanta Regional Collaborative on Health Improvement (ARCHI) • Atlanta Technical College • CareerRise • CobbWorks • Fresh Films • Georgia Building Trades Academy • Georgia Division of Family & Children Services • The nsoro Foundation • re:imagine • Goodwill of North Georgia • Frontline Housing • Youth Empowerment Success Services
A Pathway To Your Future
Michele Jacobs
Associate Vice President, College and Career Ready
How You Can Help
Your company can sponsor a youth apprenticeship program, or you can help connect an interested young person to paid, career‑building opportunities.