(NAPSI)—As you are well aware, a great deal of the energy and attention in this country is focused on creating jobs. As the Secretary of Labor, this challenge is foremost on my mind. But creating jobs is only part of the puzzle.

By 2020, 17 of the 30 fastest-growing occupations will require a postsecondary certificate or degree. In fact, employers are actively looking to fill nearly 4 million job openings in America right now. So we have to do more to help you get the specific skills local employers want to see from day one.

On Labor Day 2012 and every day, my No.1 priority is to help those looking for work, get the training they need for good-paying careers. Here are a few tips:

• Not sure where to begin? Get to know your local American Job Center. These nearly 3,000 “one-stop-shops” are a part of a nationwide network where you can work with employment professionals to update your resume, strengthen interview skills and find companies looking to hire. Find your local center by visiting CareerOneStop.org.

• Looking for a fresh start? Check out MySkillsMyFuture.org to explore different careers that build off of your existing skills, connect you to free training programs and even find local employers looking to hire. The site will also tell you how much different jobs pay near you or across the country, as well as the additional skills you’ll need to succeed.

• Not sure what career is right for you? Visit MyNextMove.org to find the job that’s the perfect fit. You can fill out a questionnaire listing your interests and abilities, and get suggestions for different employment paths in more than 900 careers. It will also show you local apprenticeship and certificate programs to help you get a job in high-growth industries.

• Are you a veteran? My Next Move for Vets is just for you. Enter your military occupation code and this site can help translate your military skills to match them up with those needed to fill civilian jobs. If you’re a post-9/11 era veteran, you can also download a Veterans Gold Card at DOL.gov/VETS to access additional services from your local American Job Center.

• Don’t have Internet access at home? We’ve partnered with local libraries all around the country to make sure that you always have a place to log on to our online resources. Most American Job Centers offer free access for those looking for a job, too.

• Have more questions? Call us. You can reach our toll-free helpline at (866) 4-USA-DOL for the most up to date resources. Nearly 160,000 people do it each month.

Make no mistake, the American workforce is back on track. Every day Americans are going back to work. At the U.S. Department of Labor, our role is to help make that process easier. And we won’t rest until every American who wants a job can find one.

The Hon. Hilda L. Solis is the U.S. Secretary of Labor.

 

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