Connect & Learn is a no-cost, 38-week initiative designed for Work First New Jersey (WFNJ) recipients who want the digital skills, career readiness, and professional confidence to enter or re-enter the workforce.
Participants begin with a personalized intake and skills assessment, receive an individualized learning plan, and get barrier-reduction support to help them complete the program. Weekly one-on-one coaching, career development workshops, and training delivered with employer partners prepare graduates for real jobs in high-demand fields.
What you gain
Participants work with an employment coach to align strengths and interests with an eligible training pathway. As you progress, you’ll build job-search assets (resume, applications, interviewing skills) and transition directly into employment services when training is complete.
Graduates earn industry-recognized credentials such as the Aztec Digital Literacy Certificate and IC3 GS6 Certification, with options to stack additional credentials tied to in-demand careers.
The program provides digital literacy training, a recognized credential, support services, workplace-readiness coaching, and a laptop with internet access upon completion, along with free workforce training and job placement support.
Who is eligible
- Active WFNJ recipients, 18 or older
- Ocean County residents (program serves Central NJ counties including Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean)
- Case worker approval
- Willingness and ability to complete training and obtain/maintain employment
How the program works
- Personalized intake, skills assessment, and an individualized learning plan
- Weekly coaching and career workshops focused on digital literacy, workplace readiness, and professional communication
- Barrier-reduction services that help you stay on track
- Credential attainment (Aztec Digital Literacy, IC3 GS6) and options for additional stackable credentials
- Transition to job placement support with employer partners
Where to get started (Ocean County)
Ocean County Achievement Center
Ocean County College | Workforce Development & Strategic Partnership
1 College Drive, Building 4, Toms River, NJ 08754
Phone: 732-255-0400, ext. 2269
Program page: go.ocean.edu/OCAC
For registration assistance specific to Connect & Learn, you may also call 732-255-0400, ext. 2354.
Program partners and funding
Connect & Learn is funded by the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development and delivered with regional partners, including Ocean County College.
We are actively recruiting participants. If you are a WFNJ recipient living in Ocean County and ready to build in-demand digital and career skills, contact the Ocean County Achievement Center to discuss eligibility, upcoming cohort dates, and next steps.