Year Up United Empowers Young Adults in Rhode Island's Evolving Job Market

As the job market in Rhode Island adapts to shifting demands, Year Up United emerges as a beacon for young adults seeking meaningful careers. With its doors now open for applications for its Customer Experience career pathway, Year Up United stands ready to equip participants with essential skills and internships—paving the way for employment in this competitive landscape.

Launching on October 19, 2026, this tuition-free program targets young adults eager to receive training in banking and customer success. With the current economic conditions in Rhode Island showing a paradox of job creation alongside a shrinking labor force, programs like Year Up United are critical in bridging gaps for youth entering the workforce.

Data from the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training highlights the pressing need for initiatives that can aid young individuals in establishing careers. Despite the state adding jobs in August, a concerning 12,500 fewer residents are employed compared to the previous year. This ongoing situation accentuates the value of programs that cultivate relevant skills and offer real-world experience for young adults.

Enter Year Up United, which has established itself as a foremost workforce solutions provider, guiding young adults without bachelor’s degrees towards promising careers. Their approach not only aids participants but also supports employers in building a strong talent pipeline, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the local workforce. Alumni like Vannda Prak illustrate the impact of Year Up United's initiatives. Prak initially sought traditional avenues through community college and part-time jobs. However, a search for direction brought her to Year Up United, where she pursued the IT track and secured an internship with Citizens. This crucial experience equipped her to transition into her current role as a Business Insights Analyst at Citizens.

Reflecting on her journey, Prak emphasized, "My career really started at Year Up United. I gained business acumen along with unexpected benefits like drive, confidence, and hope for a brighter future that feels attainable."

Located in Providence, Year Up United is dedicated to preparing young adults for the workforce. Their programs combine training, individual coaching, and hands-on work experience, tailored to meet evolving employer needs. Susan Murray, CEO of Year Up United, underscores the importance of proactive career preparations amid changing job markets. "A changing job market doesn't mean young adults should wait to start building their careers; it makes preparing for opportunities even more important," she asserts. With average earnings of $25.04 per hour for the class of 2026, the program reflects successful outcomes. In 2025, 76% of graduates found employment or continued their education.

The success of Year Up United has been significantly bolstered by partnerships with local employers. This year marks 20 years of collaboration with Citizens, which has provided internships for over 400 participants since Year Up United commenced operations in Providence in 2005. According to Susan La Monica, Citizens' Chief Human Resources Officer, this long-term partnership reinforces the mutual benefits derived from investing in young talent through mentorship and real-world experiences, paving pathways for meaningful career trajectories.

Young adults in Rhode Island contemplating their next steps have a valuable opportunity at hand. Year Up United encourages applications for its Customer Experience program before the October 19 start date. For more information about eligibility or to apply, interested individuals should visit their official website to seize the chance to transform their futures through career development and professional growth.

About Year Up United

Year Up United is committed to transforming the workforce landscape by enabling young adults without bachelor’s degrees to embark on meaningful careers. Through strategic partnerships and comprehensive training, Year Up United fosters economic mobility and creates a substantial impact on the communities it serves.