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Empowering Career Growth Through Culturally-Responsive Support

The UAII Workforce Development Program supports eligible American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian community members in Los Angeles and Orange County as they work toward education, training, and employment goals. Through individualized guidance, workshops, and career-focused resources, we help community members build a path toward long-term economic stability.

The Workforce Development Program is part of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and is funded by the United States Department of Labor.

How We Support Your Career Journey

Our Workforce Development Program offers support across several focus areas. Participants may engage in one or more pathways depending on their goals and needs.

Job Search & Employment Support

  • Resume development and interview preparation
  • Job search assistance and application support
  • Employment readiness and career planning

College & Career Planning

  • Guidance exploring college, vocational, and training programs
  • Support identifying career pathways aligned with long-term goals
  • Assistance navigating enrollment and application processes

Education & Training Support

  • Secondary education support
  • Referrals to training and certification programs
  • Skill-building opportunities to strengthen employability

Career Advancement & Skill Building

  • Professional development workshops
  • Career exploration and goal setting
  • Ongoing individualized support

Workshops & Community Events

UAII Workforce workshops and community events are designed to support career readiness, education planning, and professional growth. These sessions provide practical guidance, skill-building opportunities, and connections to resources that help participants move forward in their career or education journey.


Workshop topics may include:

  • Job readiness and employment preparation
  • Resume building and interview skills
  • Career exploration and goal setting
  • College, training, and certification pathways
  • Financial literacy and workplace skills

Workshops and events are open to all community members. Topics and schedules vary each month based on community needs.

Young latina woman working from home office using laptop

Eligibility & Workforce Orientation

If you are interested in UAII Workforce Development services, attending a Workforce Orientation is the first step. Orientation is open to all community members and provides an overview of services, eligibility requirements, and the enrollment process.


Workforce Eligibility Overview

An individual may be eligible to receive Workforce Development services if they meet the following criteria:

  • Enrolled member of a Federally or State-Recognized Tribe (American Indian or Alaska Native) or Native Hawaiian (Kānaka Maoli)
  • At least 18 years of age
  • U.S. Citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Resident of Los Angeles County or Orange County
  • Registered for Selective Service (if male and 18 years or older)

Additionally, the individual must be at least one of the following:

  • Unemployed
  • Underemployed
  • Low income, as defined under WIOA guidelines

Final eligibility is determined by Workforce staff.

Workforce Community Resources

If you are not eligible for UAII Workforce Development services or if you are looking for additional support beyond our program, our Community Resources Guide is here to assist.

The UAII Workforce Community Resources Guide includes trusted education, employment, and support resources available to American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and local community members in Los Angeles and Orange County.

Meet Our Team

Erin Espinosa

Interim Co-Program Manager of Workforce Development

 San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians

Cristina Ramos

Interim Co-Program Manager of Workforce Development


Questions or Support?

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact our Workforce team:

Hours: Monday- Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (213) 202-3970 ext. 7221

We’re here to support you every step of the way.


 

Upcoming Workforce Events

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