LAPLACE — Louisiana Workforce Commission in LaPlace is connecting youth ages 16 to 24 to summer employment opportunities beginning the first week of June.

Space is still open for the eight-week program, which runs from June through August in partnership with businesses and government agencies in St. John the Baptist, St. Charles and St. James parishes.

Whether participants are placed with Home Depot,   summer camp groups or office positions, Louisiana Workforce Commission director Tommy Scott III said summer employment is a valuable tool for young people building toward a rewarding career.

Eligibility, as with other Workforce Commission programs, is based on overall household income.

“We’ve had great success stories of individuals that have acquired full time positions and have even taken steps to a lucrative career, and it all started with them entering this program,” Scott said. “It’s about them getting a chance.”

According to Scott, changing times have opened a number of life paths to young people graduating from high school. An endless sea of choices lies ahead, whether someone pursues a four-year college degree or enters an apprenticeship program.

No matter the path, experience is typically required for employment.

“This is almost like an internship program for people to try out different industries, kind of see what’s lucrative and also discover what their true talents, skills and abilities are,” Scott said.

Job placement is determined by the applicant’s age and current skill set, as well as availability of businesses in the community.

While the program has deep roots in the community, Scott said he is always striving for greater awareness among local businesses and community members. He believes investing in local talent ultimately builds a stronger River Region workforce.

“If the companies are pleased with their performance over the summer, we do have some employers who have actually offered full time positions,” Scott said.

Participants have a variety of career resources at their fingertips at the Louisiana Workforce Commission LaPlace office, open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. The office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday.

“We do assist them in job searching and resume preparation,” Scott said. “We offer job readiness courses and information about recruiting events. It’s just something to become more employable and pursue a path they think they can be successful in.”

According to Scott, Louisiana Workforce Commission is wrapping up a film training cohort with Novac in New Orleans. Over the past six months, participants have been trained in every aspect of film production as New Orleans and the River Region take precedence in “Hollywood South.”

Scott said most of the participants have landed jobs behind the camera, as well as positions in lighting, staging, wardrobe and assistant roles.

For more information, call 985-652-3471 or visit Louisiana Workforce Commission at 421 W. Airline Highway Suite F. in LaPlace.