By Abby Cambiano
Northeast News 

For students graduating this year, figuring out the next step can be difficult. Some might head off to college or continue working a part-time job. However, for those interested in joining the workforce full-time, the Full Employment Council offers resources specifically for young adults ages 16-24.

The FEC helps unemployed and underemployed residents of Kansas City by working with local businesses, organizations and educational institutions to put people to work.

“The Cube” Young Adult Career Connections Center is located at 1722 E. 17th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, in the 18th and Vine Jazz District. The “career creds” offered for youth include advanced manufacturing, business and financial services, healthcare fields, transportation logistics, as well as information technology classes and construction.

Gail Greble, communications manager for FEC, said one reason the center focuses on young adults is, “They usually don’t have the same work experience older adults have.”

The lengths of the programs differ depending on the area of study, but nearly all training programs offer some type of certification. Courses can take between two weeks and six months. The Cube offers career exploration, education and training, essential skills help and real-world experience.

“These credentials are designed to be stackable,” Greble said. “They’re intentionally made to be built up to a full-time career.”

For example, one can get certified as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), come back later to get the  certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and eventually Registered Nurse (RN) certification. Greble said healthcare is popular because of the large medical field in Kansas City.

The Cube also assists young adults in interview skills, resumes, mentoring, scholarship opportunities, career counseling and aid for various needs. In addition, the FEC offers high school diploma equivalency programs for youth and adults alike.

The FEC has helped over 18,000 people in Kansas City since its inception. From 2015 to 2016, the FEC served more than 1,500 Kansas City youth through their classes, summer job league and other services. For a full look at the FEC’s services and opportunities, go to www.feckc.org.