Flint Hills Job Corps is facing an uncertain future after the U.S. Department of Labor announced Thursday it is suspending operations at all Job Corps centers nationwide, effective June 30.
The decision follows the April release of the Job Corps transparency report, which found the overall graduation rate was just 38.6%, while the total cost per graduate totaled $155,600. Average annual earnings for graduates after they leave the program is just under $17,000. The decision also aligns with President Trump’s 2026 budget proposal and federal officials have said the program costs taxpayers $1.7 billion annually.
According to the Labor Department, Job Corps operated at a $140 million deficit in 2024, and is projected to reach $213 million in 2025. There are currently fewer than 25,000 students enrolled in Job Corps programs across the country.
