Native Americans have access to several job training programs, workforce development initiatives, and educational resources to enhance their skills and career opportunities. Here are some key resources:
Federal & Tribal Workforce Development Programs
a. Native American Career and Technical Education Program (NACTEP)
- Provides job training in various trades and technical fields.
- Administered by the U.S. Department of Education.
- More Info
b. Indian and Native American (INA) Employment and Training Program (WIOA Section 166)
- Offers job training, internships, and employment assistance.
- Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor.
- More Info
c. Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) Programs
- Provides job placement and vocational training for tribal members.
- Contact your local TERO office for opportunities.
- More Info
Trade Schools & Apprenticeships
a. Native American Apprenticeship Program (through Unions & Trade Schools)
- Programs in construction, electrical work, plumbing, and other trades.
- Contact the Native American Contractors Association (NACA) or local unions.
- More Info
b. American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) Workforce Development
- Supports Native Americans pursuing careers in STEM.
- More Info
c. Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) – Workforce Training Programs
- Many TCUs offer workforce certification programs in nursing, IT, business, and trades.
- Find a TCU
Online Job Training & Career Resources
a. Native Edge – NCAIED Job & Business Training
- Online job training, career coaching, and business development for Native Americans.
- More Info
b. Indigenous Peoples in Tech (Natives in Tech)
- Free coding and IT training programs for Native Americans.
- More Info
c. Coursera & Udemy (Free Courses for Native Americans via Tribal Programs)
- Some tribes offer free access to online job training courses in business, healthcare, and technology.
Job Placement & Support Services
a. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Job Placement & Training Program
- Provides financial assistance for job training and certification programs.
- More Info
b. National Indian Youth Council (NIYC) Workforce Training
- Offers career services, job readiness workshops, and skill-building programs.
- More Info
c. Goodwill Indigenous Career Pathways
- Provides Native Americans with job training, resume help, and interview prep.
- More Info
Entrepreneurship & Business Training
a. Native American Business Incubators Program
- Helps Native entrepreneurs develop skills to start and grow businesses.
- More Info
b. SBA Office of Native American Affairs
- Offers business training and support for Native-owned startups.
- More Info
c. First Peoples Fund’s Artist Training Programs
- Supports Native artists with business training and marketing skills.
- More Info
Final Tips
✅ Contact your tribal employment office for local training opportunities.
✅ Check with Tribal Colleges for workforce training programs.
✅ Apply for Native-focused apprenticeships and internships in your field of interest.


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