The Coconino County Career Center on Oct. 19 will launch a new job training program designed to link nonstudents and unemployed young people with community businesses and career opportunities and job training.

The StartHere job-training program is designed to provide individuals age 16-24 who are not working or in school with training, resources, mentors, internships and job opportunities.

The kick-off event will be held at the Bushmaster Park at 2 p.m. and will feature food, T-shirt giveaways, pickup basketball and a spray chalk gallery.

“The County is reaching out to individuals who are not in school and not working, and providing a supportive environment for them,” Liz Archuleta, board of supervisors chairwoman, said in a statement. “We will facilitate a training program to connect the youth with local businesses so they can get job experience and learn new skills. This will empower these individuals to grow into an integral part of our community.”

The program will offer six career pathways: manufacturing, health care, property maintenance, commercial driving, computer information technology and an exploratory option for those who are undecided.

“There is a shortage in skilled labor across the U.S., and Flagstaff is no different,” Jeff Springborn, Nestle Purina human resources manager, said in a press release. “As our long-time employees begin to retire, there is a high demand for new skilled workers in manufacturing. Because of this, we recognize that promoting and providing opportunities for training and career development is vital for the sustainable growth of our business and the manufacturing industry.”