NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) – WHAT’S NEXT: Removing Barriers for Success” will host an open house Monday, Aug. 12 in Newport News.

Created by former Newport News Superintendent Doctor Ashby Kilgore and Newport News Councilman John Eley III, the initiative provides free job training through Virginia Peninsula Community College. The city of Newport News, Sentara Healthcare and Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc assist with funding through grants and community partnerships.

“We have expanded our services and because of Sentara, the Newport News Shipyard, and the city of Newport News, we’re able to serve more people and get people to help they need so they can be successful in life,” said Eley, who is also a former Newport News schoolboard member.

A wide range of classes are available for residents including training for healthcare, welding, HVAC and commercial driver’s licenses (CDL).

“We’ve had over 400 people get industry certifications! That’s just great,” said Eley. “We’re just excited about change. It’s not just for Newport News but the entire Hampton Roads community. The main thing is as long as you’re a Virginia resident, you can sign up with us and we’ll get you on the right path to success.”

What’s Next program offers free CDL training; open house in Newport News

The open house on Monday hopes to connect with recent high school students.

“We’re targeting [recent] high school seniors who don’t want to go to college or can’t afford it. [Those] wanting to get directly to the workforce, again, preaching entrepreneurship and how they could better their lives and the lives of their families at no cost,” said Sheldon Jones, What’s Next? Director of Operations.

What’s Next? Free job training sign-up event in Hampton

Jones, a Peninsula native and Heritage High graduate, shares a recent success story with 10 On Your Side. 

“We had a young man who graduated high school this summer. Congratulations to him! He signed up for the welding class three days later, and now he’s going to start his career as a welder. It’s pretty cool. The process is seamless if you follow the checklist,” said Jones. 

NN Mayor, Police Chief discuss gun violence statistics for first half of ’24

City leaders credit programs like WHAT’S NEXT? for a reduction in crime so far this year.

Eley said, “The good thing about the grant opportunities is that, for instance, in Newport News, our crime is down 55% according to city council. The city manager pointed to grassroots community organizations, because when people are at work, crime goes down. That’s one thing that not just Newport News wants but all across the Hampton Roads area, all cities want crime to go now! Our grassroots organizations on the ground are putting people to work and it’s making sure our cities is continue to be safe.”

More than 370 people sign up for trade courses through ‘What’s Next’ program in Newport News

The event tonight will also host a voter registration drive, ahead of the November Presidential Election.

“This election is considered probably one of the most important elections in world history, if you will. We deem it important to let the people know that your vote matters, no matter who you’re voting for. Get out there and that goes on the state level as well… Now is our time to let our voices be heard and ensure our future,” said Jones.

This sign-up event is from 5 p.m. to 7p.m. (next to Heritage High School) inside of the Achievable Dream location on Marshall Avenue.

“Every vote matters. We want to inform people that no matter who you vote for, get registered to vote and also exercise your right to vote,” said Eley.