The Bowser administration has launched a free career coaching program for residents throughout the District. 

Career Coach DC will offer one-on-one counseling with a coach for those who meet the criteria and are in need of   professional development. According to the Bowser administration, coaches will provide participants with career assessments and referrals to training, education, and job opportunities. 

“Having a career coach will be the missing piece some residents need to get their fair shot – to help them navigate the opportunities and programs that best fit their strengths, interests, and career goals,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser in a statement.

The program will be free for residents 18 years and older who have not yet completed a bachelor’s degree or those with a low or moderate income threshold. It’s expected to run through the next two years and provide coaching for at least 5,000 D.C. residents. 

“No matter what your background is, where you are in your career, how much money you make, how many degrees you have or don’t have – you could use a coach,” said Bowser during a press conference Thursday. 

Funding for the no-cost program was made possible through an investment of more than $3 million, with an initial $2.4 million grant to the KRA Corporation, a workforce development consultant.

The program is also being led by the District’s WorkForce Investment Council, which advises D.C. officials on workforce development and administers similar programs. According to Ahnna Smith, the executive director for WIC, the new coaching program will provide career opportunities for District residents while also promoting diversity in the workforce.

“Our job is to make sure that those services are aligned and connected and work efficiently – to make sure that we’re furthering the community’s goals of racial equity and economic prosperity,” said Smith.

According to Bowser, residents can begin signing up now for virtual, in-person, or hybrid coaching services with the District’s dozens of professionals.