Career Pathways Program

Mailing Address

2714 Union Ext. Ave
5th Floor Suite 500 Memphis TN 38112 

Phone

901-633-4036

Email

Darren.Garcia
@memphistn.gov

M-F

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m

A career pathway is a plan that helps post-graduate students move toward their career or wage goals by providing a series of steps, jobs, training, and skills. Career pathways can be customized for any ambition or plan and can begin as early as grade 7. They can include information about education and training, wages, and outlooks for related occupations. The City of Memphis has a goal to create a pathway in each division to broaden the scope for newly entry level candidates to have a job awaiting them once the completion of graduation. The certifications they have earned and the skills they have learned will account for the experience needed for those positions. 

The Career Pathway Program will also give each candidate the opportunity to further their education by going to college or trade school to earn a degree and/or certification, fully paid for by the pathway program. We are currently partnered with Southwest Tennessee Community College and Tennessee College of Applied Technology.

(COM)Career Pathway Programs:
  • Police Service Technician (Blue Path)
  • Emergency Response Call Operator (Gold Path)
  • EMT Certification Scholarship Program (Emerging Firefighters)
  • Automotive Technology Certification Program
  • Assistant Animal Laboratory Technology Certification Program
  • Administrative Office Technology Certification Program
  • Career Closet
 
Full-time Employment
The Police Service Technician (Blue Path) and Emergency Response Call Operator (Gold Path) positions are full-time career opportunities with the City of Memphis, offering stable employment, professional growth, and a comprehensive benefits package.

  • Police Service Technicians (Blue Path): serve as uniformed, civilian members of the Memphis Police Department. They perform a variety of non-enforcement duties such as traffic control, accident reporting, and community assistance. This position is often a steppingstone for those interested in a long-term career in law enforcement, including the path to becoming a sworn police officer.
     
  • Emergency Response Call Operators (Gold Path): are vital first responders responsible for answering 911 calls, dispatching emergency services, and coordinating communication during critical incidents. This high-impact role requires strong communication skills, calm under pressure, and a commitment to public safety.
 
Both roles are classified as full-time employment with access to City of Memphis benefits, which may include:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • Retirement and pension plans
  • Employee assistance and wellness programs
  • Opportunities for advancement and continued training

These positions offer more than just a job—they provide a meaningful way to serve the Memphis community while gain vital experience for a sustainable career in public service.

Police Service Technicians (Blue Path)

Emergency Response Call Operators (Gold Path)

Scholarships

Career Pathways Scholarship Programs
The Career Pathways Department offers specialized certification programs designed to equip Memphis residents with the skills and training necessary to enter high-demand career fields. Through strategic partnerships with institutions like TCAT Memphis and Southwest Tennessee Community College, participants receive tuition assistance, career coaching, and job placement support. Below is an overview of key certification programs currently offered:

EMT Certification Scholarship Program (Emerging Firefighters)
This program provides full tuition assistance for individuals pursuing certification as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) through Southwest Tennessee Community College. Designed to support the City of Memphis’ need for qualified first responders, this pathway serves as a foundation for those interested in emergency services and public safety careers, including firefighting. Participants gain hands-on training in emergency medical care, with opportunities for advancement within the fire service or healthcare system.

Automotive Technology Certification Program
Offered through TCAT Memphis, this program prepares individuals for careers in the automotive repair and maintenance industry. Students receive practical, hands-on training in diagnostics, engine performance, electrical systems, brake systems, and other essential automotive skills. Graduates are well-equipped for employment in dealerships, repair shops, or fleet maintenance operations, including opportunities within City of Memphis departments.

Assistant Animal Laboratory Technology Certification Program
This specialized program trains participants for support roles in veterinary clinics, research labs, and animal care facilities. Students learn essential skills in animal handling, lab procedures, specimen collection, and data recording. Offered through TCAT Memphis, the program is ideal for individuals interested in both science and animal care, and it helps meet the growing demand for skilled lab technicians in the biomedical and veterinary sectors.

Administrative Office Technology Certification Program
This program equips participants with the technical and organizational skills necessary to excel in modern office environments. Training includes computer applications, business communication, office procedures, and records management. Graduates are prepared for employment in administrative roles across a variety of industries, including opportunities within City of Memphis government offices and departments.

These programs not only remove financial barriers through tuition support but also connect participants to real career pathways with long-term growth potential. Each certificate is aligned with the City’s workforce needs, offering a direct pipeline to meaningful, stable employment.

Coming Soon
Truck Driving Certification Program(CDL)
 
For more information, contact Darren Garcia at 901.633.4036 or email [email protected]
 
 
 
Career Closet
The Career Closet, sponsored by the Career Pathways Department, is a free resource designed to support students and job seekers as they prepare to enter the workforce. Understanding that first impressions matter, the Career Closet provides access to professional attire and accessories to help participants feel confident and workplace-ready.

This service is available to individuals hired/enrolled in our Career Pathways programs, including those pursuing roles in public service, administration, technical trades, and other career fields. Whether preparing for a job interview, career fair, internship, or first day on the job, participants can select from a variety of new and gently used business clothing, including suits, dress shirts, blouses, slacks, skirts, dresses, shoes, ties, and more.

In addition to clothing, the Career Closet experience may also include:
  • Career readiness support (e.g., resume review, interview tips)
  • Workplace essentials, such as hygiene kits or portfolios
  • One-on-one styling assistance to ensure proper fit and confidence

The Career Closet reflects the Career Pathways Department’s commitment to breaking down barriers to employment and helping participants present themselves with professionalism, pride, and purpose as they transition into meaningful careers.

The City of Memphis Career Pathways Department serves post-secondary graduates between the ages of 18 and 25, helping them transition into the workforce through training, support, and career opportunities.