RESOURCES TO REACH YOUR GOALS.
Explore our wide range of job-seeker resources to help you succeed on the path to your new career and the life you want.
SKILLS
DEVELOPMENT
Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE)
The TABE, or the Test of Adult Basic Education, is an extensive exam that tests an individual's grasp on core skills necessary for success in education and the workplace. This test is used to both assess where students are in terms of practical skills and determine the next steps in educational pursuits. Learn more.
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ACT WorkKeys
An online learning platform, ACT Work Keys Curriculum helps you build, evaluation and certify the core workplace skills employers look for, including applied math, critical thinking, graphic literacy, workplace documentation, soft skills and more. Learn more.
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Career Workshops
These interactive workshops are designed to strengthen your skills in the workplace through interview preparation, training and certificate opportunities and more. Register today.
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Career One-Stop
Run by the U.S. Department of Labor, the Career One-Stop website offers free information, resources and tools for career development and training. Visit site.
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My Next Move
Find career pathways that build on your interests, talents, and experiences; get personalized career suggestions; and explore salaries and job requirements for over 900 careers. Explore career options.
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Career Online High School
Earn your high school diploma and get career-ready in as little as six months with this online program for Orange County residents 19 years or older. Learn more.
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Harvard Online Classes
Harvard offers a range of online learning opportunities and digital courses that can be audited for free, as well as low- and no-cost verified online certificate programs. Learn more.
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Small Business Administration
If you’re thinking of starting your own business, the SBA offers a wealth of advice and resources to help you get started, create a plan, find financing, and more. Learn more.
Toastmasters
Build your public-speaking skills, leadership abilities, and confidence levels; practice written communication; get tips for impressive job interviews; and connect with a network of fellow job seekers. Learn more.
unemployment assistance
Dislocated Worker Presentation
Provided onsite or virtually, this presentation covers important information for workers who have been or will be laid off. During the presentation, you’ll learn about the free resources available to help you find reemployment. Sign up for a dislocated worker presentation.
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Employment Development Department Virtual Call Center
Call the EDD Virtual Call center for help with unemployment insurance questions, claims and payments. 800-300-5616. Visit site.
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My Reemployment Plan
Access this toolkit for navigating unemployment insurance, understanding work search requirements, and creating a customized plan for finding reemployment. View plan.
COMMUNITY
RESOURCES
2-1-1 OC
2-1-1 OC is a comprehensive referral system that connects OC residents in need to a wide range of resources for health and human services and support for housing, job placement, food, health insurance, and more. Help is available 24/7 through a multi-lingual hotline. Visit site.
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OC Health Care Agency
This agency offers a range of mental health and counseling services for OC adults, youth, families, and individuals with disabilities who have limited or no access to care. Learn more.
LABOR MARKET
INFORMATION
Bureau of Labor Statistics Career Outlook
See information about career opportunities in high-growth industries, pay, benefits and more to help you choose your career pathway. View info.
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Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook
Learn what workers do in specific jobs, working conditions, required education and training, earnings, and more for a wide range of occupations. View info.
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Bureau of Labor Statistics: The Economics Daily
View charts, maps and statistics about key industries and economic trends that impact you. View info.
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Employment Development Department Labor Market Information
Get information about California’s labor market to find see who’s hiring, where the job growth is, potential earnings, and more. View info.
LEARNING
RESOURCES
Orange County Public Library
Access a range of electronic and digitized resources including books, audio books, journals and newspapers, and resources for educational programs, job searchers, housing, veteran’s benefits, and more. Learn more.
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OC Workforce Solutions Book Club
See book and reading recommendations covering a range of topics including self-improvement, career development, job searches, interview skills, and more. View titles.
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Ted Talks
Browse through a library of inspiring, motivating, and mind-expanding Ted Talks featuring fascinating lectures from the world’s leading scientists, researchers, technologists, teachers, business leaders, and more. View collection.
“My experience working with their staff is that if you’re willing to put in the work on your part, they’re there for you. If they know you’re serious about wanting to find a job or career or turn your life around, they will help out in any way they can.”
— Randall Damron