2026 Programs

OUR PROGRAMS

Funded through multiple contracts and sources. School-partnered. Detroit-rooted. Built around what you love to do.

💼
FLAGSHIP PROGRAM

Summer 2026 Paid Internship

Get Paid to Explore Your Future

The Dreamtek Summer 2026 Paid Internship is Detroit's most dynamic youth workforce program. Participants ages 14–26 with disabilities earn real wages while exploring career tracks built around what they actually love to do — from animation and robotics to natural hair braiding and solar energy.

Pay
$13.73/hr
Hours
Up to 120 hours
Date
Summer 2026
Location
20+ Detroit & Metro Area Work Sites
Apply / Get Permission Slip

Eligibility

  • Ages 14–26
  • Must have a documented disability (physical or mental)
  • Michigan resident
  • IEP or disability documentation
  • Willingness to learn and show up

Career Tracks Available

Animation & FilmRobotics3D PrintingComputer DesignSolar EnergyFashion & SeamstressingNatural Hair BraidingMusic & ArtsCulinary ArtsAutomotiveBarberingHealthcareRetail & Customer ServiceLandscapingAdministrative & OfficeMarketing & Social MediaConstructionChildcareSports & RecreationPhotography
🏆
SPECIAL EVENT

Post 2nd Demonstration Fair

Show Detroit What You've Got

Dreamtek, working with the Northwest Activity Center and the Detroit Pistons, is hosting a special Post-Secondary Transition Fair on May 27, 2026 — a 6-hour event focused on preparing young people for life after high school. Hosted by Ron Hilliard (Channel 4 weatherman). Transportation provided for groups of 8+ students per school. Lunch provided. Detroit Pistons giveaways and special surprises including driver's education sponsorship for some students.

Pay
Attendance is free for those who complete the necessary paperwork
Hours
6-hour event
Date
May 27, 2026
Location
Northwest Activity Center, Detroit
Apply / Get Permission Slip

Eligibility

  • Students, teachers, school staff, transition coordinators
  • Counselors and professionals who serve special needs youth
  • Complete permission paperwork to attend at no cost
  • Transportation provided for groups of 8 or more students per school
  • Questions? Email [email protected]

What's Included

Live demonstrationsEmployer meet & greetSkills showcaseCommunity celebrationCareer networkingAwards & recognition
❤️
CERTIFICATION

CPR & AED Readiness

Life-Saving Skills, Career-Opening Doors

Our 20-hour Michigan-compliant CPR & AED Readiness program gives youth the certification they need to enter healthcare, fitness, childcare, and community service careers. This isn't just a class — it's a credential that employers respect.

Pay
Funded program
Hours
20 hours
Date
Ongoing enrollment
Location
Dreamtek Program Sites
Apply / Get Permission Slip

Eligibility

  • Ages 14–26
  • No prior experience required
  • Must complete all 20 hours
  • Michigan compliance standards met

What's Included

CPR certificationAED operationFirst aid basicsHealthcare career pathwaysCommunity healthEmergency response

20+ CAREER TRACKS
BUILT FOR DETROIT YOUTH

Every track is designed around what Detroit and Metro area young people are already passionate about.

Tech & Innovation

🎬
Animation & Film
Video production, editing, storytelling — like Iron Courage
🤖
Robotics
Build, code, and program robots from the ground up
🖨️
3D Printing
Design and manufacture real objects with cutting-edge tech
💻
Computer Design
Graphic design, digital art, branding & UX
☀️
Solar Energy
Green tech, sustainable energy installation & careers

Construction & Trades

🏗️
Construction
Basic trades, safety, skilled labor & construction careers
☀️
Solar Energy
Solar panel installation, green energy & sustainable building
🔧
Skilled Trades
Electrical, plumbing, HVAC & mechanical fundamentals
🪚
Carpentry
Woodworking, framing, finish work & construction management

Creative & Style

✂️
Fashion & Seamstressing
Design, tailoring, alterations & fashion entrepreneurship
💇
Natural Hair Braiding
Cosmetology, braiding techniques & beauty business
💈
Barbering
Grooming, fades, business ownership & client service
🎵
Music & Arts
Production, performance, visual art & creative expression
📸
Photography
Digital photography, editing & visual storytelling

Trades & Community

🍽️
Culinary Arts
Food prep, catering, restaurant & food business
🚗
Automotive
Auto tech, detailing, transportation & mechanics
🏥
Healthcare
CPR, AED, patient care & health career pathways
🌱
Landscaping
Horticulture, grounds maintenance & outdoor careers
🏗️
Construction
Basic trades, safety, and skilled labor careers

Business & Service

📱
Marketing & Social Media
Content creation, brand strategy & digital marketing
🛍️
Retail & Customer Service
Sales, service excellence & retail management
📋
Administrative & Office
Office skills, data entry & professional development
👶
Childcare
Early childhood, education & youth development
⚽
Sports & Recreation
Coaching, fitness instruction & recreation management

READY TO START?

Fill out your permission slip online and take the first step toward your future.

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