Train & Earn

Media Career Pathways

DYCD Logo; MediaMKRS Logo
Students in class

Train & Earn (Media Career Pathways) is an innovative initiative centered on dismantling barriers preventing out-of-school, out-of-work (OSOW) young adults from participating in NYC’s $28 billion entertainment industry.

The goal of a WIOA-funded Train & Earn Program is to provide comprehensive occupational and work readiness training for OSOW youth for entry into high-growth occupations tied to in-demand sectors.

Upcoming Programs


Winter 2025-2026

Program Dates: December 15, 2025 — February 27, 2026

Applications Open: Monday, October 27, 2025

Info Session: Thursday, November 6 at 2:00 PM (In-Person) — [Register Here →]

Application Deadline: Friday, December 5, 2025

Spring 2026

Program Dates: March 16 — May 15, 2026

Applications Open: Monday, January 26, 2026

Applications Close: Friday, March 6, 2026

Join the info session

Thursday, November 6 at 2:00 PM (In-Person)

Register for Info Session

All prospective applicants must attend an info session before applying. Accepted applicants will be invited to interview.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and you will be notified of the next cycle date/time.

Program Details

Students must be:

  • 16 - 24 years of age

  • Basic skills deficient

  • English language learner

  • Court-involved

  • Homeless, runaway, in foster care, or aged out

  • Pregnant or parenting

  • Living with a disability

  • In need of additional support to complete school or gain employment

Participants gain:

  • Hands-on media and content creation training (video production, graphic design, digital storytelling, etc.)

  • Work-readiness workshops to build essential career skills

  • Paid work experience with industry professionals

  • Job placement assistance and career counseling

  • Supportive services, including mentorship and financial literacy training