Career Pathways
Career Pathways
Career Pathways is Second Harvest's workforce training program that prepares job seekers for employment through skills training, job readiness support, and connections with local employers. It offers two tracks that prepare participants for careers in culinary arts and customer service.
What you’ll get:
- Job readiness coaching: time management, conflict management, resume writing, and interview prep
- Job connection assistance after completing the program
- One year of alumni support from our team
How to Apply
Step 1: Review Requirements
Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria listed below.
To qualify for the program, you must be:
- Minimum 18 years of age
- Authorized to work in the US
- Resident of Orange, Seminole, or Osceola County
- High school diploma or GED
- Experienced financial instability in the last 12 months (unemployment, low wages, government assistance, etc.)
- Background check
- No violent crimes or arson
- No criminal history within the last 2 years
- Commitment to obtain a full-time job upon completion of the program
- Minimum 6 months customer service experience (Customer Service track only)
Step 2: Learn More
Before you apply, we strongly recommend reading the Career Pathways FAQ below and the student handbook.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Complete the online application form to be considered for the program.
Upcoming Sessions
Customer Service Track
- July 7, 2026 – August 5, 2026
Apply by June 22 - September 15, 2026 – October 14, 2026
Apply by August 31
Culinary Track
- August 3, 2026 – October 9, 2026
Apply by July 20 - October 19, 2026 – January 15, 2026
Apply by October 5
** Start dates are subject to change. **
Location
411 Mercy Drive, Orlando, FL 32805
Additional Notes
- 34.87% of program funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Labor
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Basics
What is Career Pathways?
Career Pathways is a career readiness program designed to prepare job seekers for employment through skills training, job readiness support, and connections with local employers.
What does Career Pathways do?
The program offers two career tracks. The Culinary Training Track equips participants with the skills needed to enter the culinary industry. The Customer Service Track prepares participants to launch and grow in customer-facing roles.
Is the program full-time?
Yes.
The Culinary Track runs Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 2 PM, for 10 weeks. The Customer Service Track runs Tuesday and Wednesday, 8 AM to 11:30 AM, for 5 weeks.
Customer Service is only Tuesdays and Wednesdays for 5 weeks
How do I enroll?
Requirements
How old do I need to be?
At least 18 years old.
Do I need a high school diploma or GED?
Yes. A high school diploma or GED is required to apply, in line with what our employer partners expect.
Do I need a car?
You need a reliable form of transportation for the program and for future employers.
Do I need to speak English?
Yes. The program is taught in English, and you must be able to read, write, speak, and understand it well enough to follow course curriculum.
What if I have a criminal background?
We review backgrounds case by case. However, you cannot apply if you’ve been convicted of arson, sexual battery, violent crimes, crimes involving children, or have any criminal activity within the last two years.
Will I need to take a drug test?
All job seekers will be required to take and pass a drug test before entering the program.
Physical and Attendance Expectations
Are there physical requirements?
Yes. You must be able to:
- Stand for long hours
- Bend, lift up to 50 lbs, use stairs
- Work in hot and cold environments
Is full-availability a requirement of the program?
Yes. While the program runs Monday–Friday, employers require open availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Most entry-level roles need you to maintain an open availability schedule. This means availability to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays. If those hours don't work for your schedule right now, this may not be the right fit at this time.
Graduation, Cost and Jobs
How much does the program cost?
The program is free to anyone meeting program requirements. The program is made possible through grant funding and donations.
Will I get paid to come to school?
No, this is not a paid opportunity.
What do I get when I graduate?
Culinary alumni receive:
- Culinary Training diploma
- Chef coat with your name
Customer Service alumni receive
- Certificate of completion
To officially graduate, you must obtain a full-time job.
Starting your own business does not meet this requirement.
Can you guarantee I will get a job when I finish the program?
While our staff works hard to connect participants with quality employers, we cannot guarantee job connection.
What we do guarantee: we create the opportunities, and you use the skills you've learned to apply, interview, and land the job.
What kinds of jobs does the program prepare me for?
Depending on your track, you'll be prepared for entry-level roles like prep cook (Culinary Track) or customer facing positions (Customer Service Track) — the kinds of roles most people start in before moving up. We partner with employers who are committed to helping their employees grow.
Culinary Training Program
Watch the video below to see how the Culinary Training Program is fighting hunger and feeding hope. Plus, you'll see firsthand what the students experience in the classroom and hear how the program changes lives.
Stories of Hope
Real Stories. Real Impact.
Meet the neighbors, partners and volunteers who bring our mission to life. These stories highlight how your support helps fight hunger, fuel futures and strengthen communities
— one meal at a time.
Volunteers Help Rescue Food to Fight Hunger for Local Families
Volunteering is the Universal Love Language
