A pilot initiative will help prepare New Haven residents for apprenticeships and employment in the construction industry.
Mayor Justin Elicker said Thursday that some 7,000 city residents are currently unemployed, and yet, there are projects going on around New Haven. He noted, for example, ongoing construction on the Yale University campus, and how a new bioscience tower is slated to be built at 101 College St.
“We need to make sure New Haven residents are building these buildings,” Elicker said. “I am grateful our partners have stepped up to make this happen.”
The pilot program is a collaboration of not only the city and its Economic Development Administration, but partners such as Workforce Alliance, Gateway Community College, New Haven Works and the New Haven Building Trades Council. It is part of the overall Together New Haven effort, which aims to help businesses, neighborhoods and workers adversely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
The program involves not only instruction, but connections to employers. Participants learn basics such as blueprint reading, measurements, math skills related to construction, and tool and equipment use. Students who successfully complete the program can obtain certificates and building trade certifications. The next step would be securing apprenticeships.
Elicker at Thursday’s press conference.
According to Elicker, the program started about six weeks ago, and creates a way for dislocated workers to train for in-demand jobs.
“The robust state of the construction sector in New Haven made it ideal for this pilot,” Elicker said. “Despite the pandemic, opportunities are surging thanks to the many projects we have underway. With over 750 housing permits issued in 2020, New Haven is leading the state in construction activity.”
Tasheem Paden, a city resident for five years, is among those currently involved in the program.
“I have learned a lot of life skills and aspects of different trades – from plumbing to blueprint reading,” Paden said. “I hope to be able to get into the trade of my choice and make a better life for myself and my family.”
Paden is leaning toward pursuing a career as a plumber, as he believes it is a field offering job security: “Everyone has to go to the bathroom,” he said.
William Villano, president and CEO of Workforce Alliance, said being able to give people sought-after skills puts them on the path to success.
“Efficiently training people with in-demand skills benefits not only job seekers but employers in our region,” Villano said.
Following an evaluation of the initial pilot program, additional cohorts will be scheduled for 2021.
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Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.
