At Eckerd Connects, transformation starts with one student at a time. As the only non-profit operating Job Corps campuses, we help young people gain career and employability skills, purpose, and independence. And when they succeed in the workforce, so do our communities—every dollar invested in Job Corps yields $2.02 in value back to society through higher earnings, reduced public assistance, and community growth.
How Does Eckerd Approach Job Corps Training?
Our dedicated staff cultivate safe, trauma-informed environments where students gain both life and employment skills while building confidence, resilience, and agency. In partnership with employers, colleges, chambers of commerce, and community stakeholders, we ensure that every student leaves with technical expertise and real pathways to career success and independence.
What Are Eckerd's Results?
- 6,100 young adults served annually across 10 states and the District of Columbia.
- Six of the 11 Job Corps campuses Eckerd operates or co-operates rank among the top 32 in the nation.
- Students earn high school diplomas or GEDs, industry-recognized credentials, and hands-on training in more than 100 trades.
- Thousands transition into jobs, apprenticeships, or higher education programs with national partners like CVS Health, Amazon, Huntington Ingalls, and Disney.
In Their Own Words
“Job Corps gave me a second chance. They even allowed me to complete a second trade, which really helped me build confidence in what I wanted to do. I’m so grateful for Job Corps and everything it helped me achieve. Without it, I don’t know where I’d be.”
DORA | Denison Job Corps Graduate
(Completed Denison’s LPN program and currently serves as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing)
SUCCESS STORY
Angelica
At 23, Angelica was a new mom facing major challenges when she discovered Turner Job Corps on Instagram. She completed our CNA program in just 80 days, dual-enrolled in college classes, and launched her healthcare career. Today, she’s a registered nurse at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital earning $33/hour.
SUCCESS STORY
Tevon
At 21, Tevon came to Potomac Job Corps ready to build a skilled career. With strong support and unwavering dedication, he earned his Plumbing Certification along with OSHA 30, Flagger, and CPR credentials. His hard work opened the door to a position with the Local 5 Plumbers Union, where he now earns $51/hour.
SUCCESS STORY
Blake
Guided to Pittsburgh Job Corps by a community college enrollment specialist, Blake found tuition-free training and essential support like transportation and clothing assistance. Before their final semester, they secured a role in securities settlements at a major custodial bank. They now earn a $54,000 salary.
Where Do We Provide Services?
Eckerd Connects delivers comprehensive job training and career development services across nine states and the District of Columbia through the federally funded Job Corps program.
Job Training
What Is Job Corps?
Job Corps is the nation’s largest residential career training program for opportunity youth ages 16–24. It provides tuition-free education, housing, meals, healthcare, life skills, and career training in industries like healthcare, construction, IT, automotive, manufacturing, and protective services. With up to three years of support, Job Corps helps young people transition into stable jobs, apprenticeships, and college pathways
Real People. Real Results.
Eckerd’s Job Corps programs don’t just prepare young people for work—they help launch meaningful careers, build confidence, and strengthen communities. Hear from students who turned training into transformation.
