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MassHire Merrimack Valley Career Center
The MassHire Merrimack Valley Career Center plays an important role in supporting students and families as they prepare for life after high school. Beyond traditional job search assistance, MassHire helps youth and adults build the skills, confidence, and connections needed for long-term career success.
Through collaboration with schools, community agencies, and local employers, MassHire provides opportunities for career exploration, skill development, and work-based learning that align with each person’s goals and abilities. For many students with disabilities, learning about MassHire early creates a bridge between school-based transition planning and the adult world of work.
📍 Location: 420 Common Street, Lawrence, MA
MassHire Merrimack Valley Career Center
Services Available: MassHire offers free career counseling, resume and interview support, digital skills workshops, and access to job listings through the Massachusetts JobQuest platform. Specialized programs and training opportunities are available for youth, adults, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
Programs for Youth (Ages 14–24): Youth can access career exploration, paid work experiences, and training programs through YouthWorks, Connecting Activities, and WIOA Youth Programs, all designed to build readiness for employment and independence.
Specialized Supports: MassHire partners with agencies such as MassAbility, American Training, and the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission to ensure equitable access to employment supports and accommodations. Services are available in both English and Spanish, and the center is fully accessible.
🌟 Youth Services at MassHire (Ages 14–24)
MassHire offers a variety of programs designed to help young people explore careers, build skills, and gain real-world work experience. These opportunities support youth in preparing for employment and independence, whether they are still in school or have already graduated.
💼 YouthWorks
Paid summer jobs and professional skills training for youth ages 14–24
YouthWorks is a state-funded summer employment program that helps young people gain valuable work experience while earning a paycheck. Participants work in public, private, or nonprofit settings and receive hands-on training in workplace readiness skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem solving.
Before starting their job placements, participants take part in work-readiness workshops that use the Signal Success curriculum, covering topics like professionalism, goal setting, and managing workplace expectations. For many youth, YouthWorks provides a first job experience that builds confidence and prepares them for future employment or education.
Eligibility: Massachusetts residents ages 14–24. Priority is given to youth who qualify for public assistance or meet income guidelines.
Learn more: YouthWorks Program Overview
🧩 Connecting Activities
Career exploration, internships, and work-based learning during high school
Connecting Activities helps high school students explore careers and develop workplace skills while still in school. Through partnerships between schools, employers, and the local Workforce Board, students can participate in career awareness, exploration, and immersion activities.
These may include:
Career speakers and workplace tours
Financial literacy and resume workshops
Internships and job-shadowing experiences
Career fairs and networking events
Learn more: Connecting Activities
🎓 WIOA Youth Programs
Education, training, and credential-earning opportunities for in-school and out-of-school youth
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Programs provide comprehensive support to help youth reach their education and career goals. Programs are available for both in-school and out-of-school youth and are funded by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Through these programs, participants can:
Receive career planning and counseling
Enroll in occupational skills training and work-based learning opportunities
Earn industry-recognized certifications
Receive support with high school completion, college preparation, or employment placement
Examples of local opportunities include programs offered by community partners like the YMCA of the North Shore (for in-school youth) and Cybersecurity Warriors (for out-of-school youth interested in technology and cybersecurity).
These programs help participants build practical skills, gain credentials, and prepare for meaningful careers or further education.
Learn more: WIOA Youth Programs
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