The Next Gen Career Academy Program Marks One Year!

The Next Gen Career Academy Program (NGCA) has successfully completed one year! This program which is open to juniors and seniors in Dutchess County schools provides students with paid work experiences in a career interest of their choice within their communities. The program also supports students by providing them with skills training, career coaching, and mentorship which are performed through workshops. Through these workshops, students learn about workplace etiquette, goal setting, and further soft and hard skills training to succeed in their internships and are workforce ready! The Next Gen Career Academy Program has been connecting youths with different businesses in the community to complete their internships. With recent collaborations such as J.A.C.E (Wappingers), American Red Cross, Little Water Prep Charter School, and more; many businesses are open to having our eager students complete internships or job shadows in their professions. 

Next Gen Career Academy Program has been working extensively on building stronger relationships with other areas of Dutchess County in order to expand our reach to each school district. NGCA is always eager to take on tabling opportunities and meet with school guidance counselors or students to be able to provide invaluable work experiences to our youth. Throughout their time in our program, students can expect to complete a minimum of 45 hours of internship, ongoing skills training, and additional supportive services that may support their success throughout their work experience.

The Next Gen Career Academy program hopes to connect with other schools by continuously performing outreach in the community- especially in the areas that are in need of youth support. Along with connecting with the schools- the Next Gen Career Academy program is always open to connecting with other businesses in the community that are open to having students complete a work experience, internship, or job shadow. 

If you would like to find out more about the program and how you can support our youths please contact Kimara Smith at (845-454-1700 ext. 1002) or ksmith@dcrcoc.org.