Introducing the Career Pathways Exploration Lab at WAYS for Life

“I don’t know what I want to do.”

We hear that all the time. And at WAYS for Life, that’s not a problem. It’s a starting point.

Most of the young adults we serve haven’t had the chance to explore careers, build connections, or even think about what they might enjoy doing long-term. So instead of expecting them to have a plan, our Career Pathways team helps them build one.

It Starts with a Conversation

Every member begins with a one-on-one sit down with one of our Career Coaches.

We talk about goals, interests, strengths. Sometimes they have ideas. Sometimes they don’t. When they’re unsure what career they'd like to pursue, we use interest inventories and personality assessments to help uncover what might be a good fit.

But we don’t stop there.

We create opportunities for them to actually try things out.

One member wanted to work with animals, so we helped connect them to volunteer opportunities at local wildlife organizations.

Other times, it looks like something as simple (and powerful) as showing up prepared.

We’ve taken members to local shopping centers, helped them dress appropriately, bring their resumes, and walk into businesses to apply. The last time we did this a week ago, two of our members secured a job.

Building Skills That Last

Through partnerships like CareerSource’s NextGen program, members also gain access to workshops that focus on soft skills, workplace behavior, and employment readiness. Things many have never had the opportunity to learn before.

Because getting a job is one step. Knowing how to keep it and grow in it is another.

A Space to Take the Next Step

To support everything we're doing in Career Pathways, earlier this year we launched our new Career Pathways Exploration Lab.

This space was created to give members a place to focus, learn, and take action.

In the Exploration Lab they can:

• Attend workshops led by professionals in healthcare, trades, hospitality, and more

• Work toward certifications like CNA, culinary, or janitorial programs

• Build resumes, apply for jobs, and learn what to do after submitting an application

• Meet with coaches who help them think through their next steps

  
  

For members in our Transitional Housing, the Exploration Lab also provides a dedicated place to complete required hours in employment, education, or training, all while staying connected to WAYS' collaborative support.

Guided by People Who Care

The Career Pathways team is made up of coaches and volunteers from all walks of life. Former professionals in engineering, hospitality, mental health, business, and more.

Some meet with members weekly, helping them talk through life goals and explore their future. Others bring industry knowledge, connections, and real-world insight into what it takes to succeed.

It’s not one-size-fits-all. We match members with people they connect with because relationships matter in this process.

The Goal Isn’t Just a Job

We’re not here to help someone find a temporary fix.

We’re here to help them find something that fits.

Our goal is help them get plugged into a job that can grow into a career where they can feel confident and be excited about the future. Because when someone has the tools, the support, and the opportunity to explore what’s possible, they don’t just get a job, they start building a life.