Philadelphia students who want to work in government now have an opportunity to receive employment training through the city’s newly established City College for Municipal Employment.
Alongside Community College of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia, and Philadelphia Works, among other partners, the program aims to make public service careers accessible to all residents.
“Philadelphia, like many big cities, faces the challenges of recruitment, but we know we have the talent we need right here in our great city,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker in a statement. “By creating this innovative program, we have removed the barriers to access career training and streamlined the processes into a well-paying and rewarding career.”
The City College for Municipal Employment is funded through a $10 million investment of city funds and hopes to serve as a national model. According to city officials, the program has received more than 1,000 inquiries from potential students. The city plans to increase capacity and attendance over time.
The program currently features five career pathway training areas and will support over 75 participants this fall. Currently 40 students are enrolled in the Computer Support and Administrative Professional program. An additional 37 students are enrolled in Career Readiness training and anticipate entering CCME programs in spring 2025.
Program training is now being offered with a focus on skilled trades, healthcare, technology, business and administration, public safety and STEM, according to officials.
“Preparing citizens for positions with the City of Philadelphia speaks to our mission of helping residents advance their lives and enrich our communities,” said Dr. Guy Generals, President of Community College of Philadelphia.
The initiative includes a partnership with the School District of Philadelphia in an effort to connect graduating seniors with work opportunities, both through direct employment and skills training programs.
“The School District of Philadelphia is excited about collaborating with the Community College of Philadelphia and Mayor Parker in welcoming the first class to the City College for Municipal Employment, which will create an opportunity for our students to acquire quality city jobs through career exposure and training,” said Superintendent Tony Watlington. “We look forward to increasing awareness at the high school level of how the City College for Municipal Employment can expand career pathways for students across the District.”
For more information about the City College for Municipal Employment, visit phila.gov/programs and learn about the courses offered in the CCME Catalog.
