According to the City of Dallas Office of Workforce Development, over 70,000 Dallas residents have a criminal record or significant employment gap that creates challenges when re-entering the workforce. The Dallas Pathways Career Re-entry Program aims to change that by providing skills training, job placement assistance, and employer connections for individuals ready to rebuild their lives. Through public-private partnerships, this initiative equips participants with the tools, confidence, and support they need to land stable, long-term employment.
What Is the Dallas Pathways Career Re-entry Program?
The Dallas Pathways Career Re-entry Program is a city-backed workforce development initiative designed for individuals facing barriers to employment — particularly those with a history of incarceration, long-term unemployment, or other circumstances that create hiring challenges.
The program’s mission is simple: help participants gain the skills, certifications, and professional support needed to compete in today’s job market.
Official Background and Statistics
The City of Dallas Workforce Development Office reports:
- 70,000+ Dallas residents have criminal records that affect employment opportunities.
- 1 in 4 returning citizens in Dallas struggle to find work within the first year after release.
- Participation in re-entry training programs reduces recidivism by up to 43% according to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ.gov).
The Dallas Pathways initiative was launched in partnership with:
- City of Dallas Office of Workforce Development
- Dallas County Community College District
- Local nonprofits like Goodwill Industries of Dallas and Unlocking Doors
- Employer partners such as DART, AT&T, and Texas Instruments
Key Goals of the Program
The Dallas Pathways Career Re-entry Program focuses on four main goals:
- Skill Development – Offering vocational training in high-demand fields like construction, IT support, commercial driving (CDL), and healthcare.
- Job Placement – Partnering with local employers willing to hire qualified applicants with re-entry backgrounds.
- Mentorship – Providing one-on-one coaching and career guidance.
- Barrier Removal – Connecting participants with legal aid, housing referrals, and transportation solutions.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Dallas Pathways Career Re-entry Program, participants generally need to:
- Be a Dallas County resident.
- Be 18 years or older.
- Have a documented barrier to employment (e.g., incarceration history, long-term unemployment, lack of credentials).
- Be legally eligible to work in the U.S..
How the Program Works?
The program follows a structured process:
- Application & Assessment – Applicants complete an intake form and meet with a career navigator to discuss work history, goals, and challenges.
- Training Enrollment – Participants choose from vocational programs such as welding, IT support, CDL driving, or healthcare technician training.
- Soft Skills Workshops – Resume building, interview preparation, and workplace communication skills.
- Employer Matching – Participants are introduced to hiring partners through job fairs and direct referrals.
- Follow-up Support – Navigators track progress for at least 12 months after employment starts.
Programs & Certifications Offered
The Dallas Pathways Career Re-entry Program offers certifications in:
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – In partnership with local trucking companies.
- CompTIA IT Fundamentals / A+ – For entry-level tech jobs.
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – With direct hospital hiring pipelines.
- OSHA Safety Certifications – For construction and warehouse positions.
- Forklift Operation – Common for logistics and distribution roles.
More Opportunities: Does Chick-fil-A Hire Felons?
Impact and Success Stories
The City of Dallas reported in 2024 that:
- 82% of graduates secured employment within 90 days of completing the program.
- 68% maintained employment for more than a year.
- Average starting wage for program graduates: $17.25/hour.
Example success story:
Marcus W., a program graduate, served a 5-year prison sentence before enrolling in the CDL certification track. Within four months, he was hired by a local logistics company, earning $55,000 annually with benefits.
Benefits for Employers
Employers participating in the Dallas Pathways program receive:
- Access to pre-screened, trained candidates.
- Tax credits under the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) program.
- A chance to support community reintegration and reduce recidivism.
How to Apply?
Applications can be submitted through the City of Dallas Office of Workforce Development or partner agencies.
Steps:
- Visit https://dallascityhall.com and search “Pathways Career Re-entry Program.”
- Complete the online application form.
- Provide required documents: proof of residence, identification, and any relevant work history.
- Attend an orientation session.
Additional Re-entry Resources in Dallas
Besides the Dallas Pathways Career Re-entry Program, other local resources include:
- Unlocking Doors – Legal aid and case management for re-entry.
- Goodwill Industries of Dallas – Skills training and job placement.
- Texas Reentry Services – Housing and employment assistance.
Final Takeaway
The Dallas Pathways Career Re-entry Program isn’t just about finding a job — it’s about rebuilding lives, restoring confidence, and creating lasting opportunities. For Dallas residents facing barriers to work, this initiative opens doors to training, mentorship, and real career paths. And for local employers, it offers a reliable talent pipeline while giving back to the community.
FAQs
Is the program free?
Yes, most training and services are free for qualified participants.
How long does training take?
Training programs range from 4 weeks to 6 months, depending on the certification.
Do I need a high school diploma?
Not always — some programs include GED preparation.
Will my record be cleared?
No, but legal aid partners can help explore record sealing or expungement options.
