Share 
Atlantic City’s workforce development efforts got a measurable update this week. The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority highlighted results from the Atlantic City Works program.
CRDA said Atlantic Cape Community College received a $300,000 Community Development Grant to administer the program. The program helps Atlantic City residents and employees of Atlantic City businesses build job skills and access employment support.
During the 2026 grant period, Atlantic Cape trained 250 participants. The program maintained an 80% employment rate.
Atlantic City Unemployment Remains Above County and State Levels
Atlantic City continues to run above both county and state unemployment averages. CRDA cited U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The data shows Atlantic City at 8.2% unemployment, compared with 5.3% in Atlantic County and 4% statewide in New Jersey.
That figure was still an improvement from Atlantic City’s 9.5% unemployment rate in 2025.
Grant Funding Supported Training, Outreach, and Career Services
CRDA said the Atlantic City Works program focused on participant recruitment, career services, skills training, and planning and follow-up. Training was offered in fields identified on the New Jersey Industry Valued Credential List and the New Jersey List of Demand Occupations.
The agency said grant funds were used for office supplies, outreach, supportive services, and training fees.
Atlantic Cape also partnered with the Atlantic County Workforce Development Board to tailor offerings to underemployed residents and people facing long-term unemployment.
For Atlantic City, the update is notable. Workforce conditions remain a core part of the city’s broader economic picture. CRDA’s announcement centered on job training rather than any single industry. Still, the program is aimed at improving employment access in a market where hospitality and AC casino-related jobs remain a major part of the local economy.
Atlantic Cape said it offers more than 40 degree programs along with certificate-based training for high-growth occupations.
Source: As reported by njcrda.com.
