Workforce of the Future & Career Readiness Coalition

Funder: Operating Engineers 324 (in partnership with other organizations)

Geographic Scope: Detroit, Michigan (with plans for expansion)

Focus Areas:

• High school student apprenticeship readiness
• Pre-apprenticeship training
• Skilled trades career introduction

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.

Program Highlights

• 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

Target Population

• Detroit high school juniors
• Detroit high school seniors
• High school age students interested in skilled trades

Benefits of Program

• 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

Partner Organizations

• 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

Outcomes from First Class (August 2017)

• 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

Related Programs

• 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

Training Location

• Operating Engineers 324 Stationary Career Center, Detroit
• Construction Career Center, Howell, Michigan (555 acres)

Leadership

• 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

Application Process

Program Duration: 16 weeks

Application Period: Contact Operating Engineers 324 for current application windows

Application Method: Contact through OE324 website or office

Eligibility Requirements

• 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

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

Program Structure

• 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

What to Expect

• 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

Outcomes

Successful completion prepares students to:

• Enter registered apprenticeships
• Understand career pathways in skilled trades
• Have hands-on experience and certifications
• Connect with employers
• Pursue debt-free education

Contact for Application

Lee Graham - Executive Director
Operating Engineers 324
Website: oe324.org
Phone: Available through website

Notes

• 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