Workforce of the Future & Career Readiness Coalition
Funding Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling / Open
Grant Type
foundation
Overview
Workforce of the Future & Career Readiness Coalition
Funder: Operating Engineers 324 (in partnership with other organizations)
Program Status: Active - First class graduated August 2017; second class expected
Geographic Scope: Detroit, Michigan (with plans for expansion)
Focus Areas:
Program Description
A 16-week youth apprenticeship readiness pilot program designed for Detroit high school juniors and seniors. The program introduces students to skills and tools needed for careers in the building trades and provides hands-on, experiential learning to prepare them for registered apprenticeships at no cost to participants.- Duration: 16 weeks
- Cost: Free to participants
- Format: Hands-on training with real equipment and tools
- Employer Involvement: Real prospective employers and trade representatives participate
- Job Placement: Prepares students for entry into registered apprenticeships with good wages and benefits
Program Highlights
- Detroit high school juniors
- Detroit high school seniors
- High school age students interested in skilled trades
Target Population
- Debt-Free Education: Learn without incurring student debt
- Early Career Exposure: Hands-on experience with real equipment before apprenticeship
- Competitive Pay: Access to careers with $12-$33 hourly wage range and $21 median hourly income
- Benefits Package: Graduates eligible for health insurance, pensions, and union benefits
- Job Security: Access to growing skilled trades jobs (14% growth projected by 2022)
- Family Involvement: Program helps connect with parents and families
Benefits of Program
- Operating Engineers 324 (lead)
- Cadillac Asphalt
- MITA (Michigan Infrastructure & Transportation Association)
- LiUNA Laborers Local 1191
- Other regional construction and labor organizations
- Detroit Public Schools
- Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation
Partner Organizations
- 16 juniors and seniors from Cody High School (Detroit) completed program
- 100% graduation rate
- All graduates ready to enter apprenticeships
- Strong employer interest for job placement
- Graduates connected with multiple trades representatives
Outcomes from First Class (August 2017)
- Construction Science Expo: Annual event in Detroit introducing students to skilled trades (precursor to this program)
- Access for All: 9-week program for Detroit residents 18+ seeking apprenticeship/employment in trades
Related Programs
- Operating Engineers 324 Stationary Career Center, Detroit
- Construction Career Center, Howell, Michigan (555 acres)
Training Location
- Program Director/Contact: Lee Graham, Executive Director of Operating Engineers 324
- Committee Organizer: Douglas Needham, President Michigan Aggregates Association
- Program Analyst: Carla Phelps, Senior Program Analyst, Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation
Leadership
How to Apply
Application Process
Program Duration: 16 weeks
Application Period: Contact Operating Engineers 324 for current application windows
Application Method: Contact through OE324 website or office
- Detroit high school junior or senior
- Attending Detroit public school (based on first class cohort)
- Interest in skilled trades careers
- Ability to commit to 16-week program
Eligibility Requirements
Required Materials/Steps
1. Complete program application 2. Provide contact information 3. Obtain parent/guardian consent and involvement 4. Commit to 16-week program schedule- Duration: 16 weeks
- Format: Hands-on training at training facilities
- Curriculum: Introduction to various skilled trades
- Equipment: Training on real equipment used in construction trades
- Instruction: Experienced trade instructors
- Cost: Free to participants
Program Structure
- Introduction to variety of skilled trades
- Hands-on experience with real tools and equipment
- Job site visits and real-world experience
- Interaction with prospective employers
- Trade representative presentations
- Graduation ceremony and celebration
- Job placement assistance
What to Expect
- Enter registered apprenticeships
- Understand career pathways in skilled trades
- Have hands-on experience and certifications
- Connect with employers
- Pursue debt-free education
Outcomes
Successful completion prepares students to:Contact for Application
Lee Graham - Executive Director Operating Engineers 324 Website: oe324.org Phone: Available through website- First class graduated August 2017 from Cody High School
- Second class expected to launch (timing TBD)
- Program may expand to additional Detroit schools
- Parent/family involvement is a key component of the program
Notes
Focus Areas & Funding Uses
Fields of Work
workforce-developmentyouth-programseducation
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