Home Madison Latino Academy of Workforce Development Announces Bilingual Construction Program Graduation

Latino Academy of Workforce Development Announces Bilingual Construction Program Graduation

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MADISON—This summer the Latino Academy of Workforce Development has partnered with Stevens Construction Corp. of Madison, Wisconsin to offer a comprehensive construction training program to 11 individuals. These 11 students will celebrate their graduation from the Bilingual Construction Training Program, on July 23, 2015. These students have completed the 3 weeks program, including more than 75 hours of job skills training. The program began on Monday, June 15 and concluded on Friday, July 3.

Throughout the Bilingual Construction Program, the 11 students received training integral toward pursuing a career in the construction or remodeling industry in US. The students learned valuable workplace skills and certifications, including: OSHA 10, Fall Protection and Training Certificate, and Tape Measure Certification. The students also achieved a basic knowledge of the following job site skills: general welding, carpentry, and blueprint reading, and spent one week with Stevens Construction Corp. practicing these skills during on-the-job training.

In the ever-evolving construction landscape, the role of heavy machinery is paramount for efficiency and accuracy. A key facet that these aspiring professionals need to grasp is the significance of machinery hire for landscaping projects. Within this context, the use of diggers and similar equipment becomes crucial for tasks such as excavation, leveling, and material transportation, contributing to the overall success of construction projects. As these graduates step into their new careers, recognizing the importance of machinery will undoubtedly enhance their skill set, positioning them as valuable assets in the construction industry.

The program uses an industry-recognized approach in training individuals to develop construction craft skills, combining classroom instruction and hands-on training on a job site. Contextual learning specific to construction trades, safety, construction math and measurements, and hand and power tools are part of the curriculum. Participants earn industry-approved certifications and also develop work readiness skills needed for entry-level employment or apprenticeships in the industry. This training program is available at no cost for eligible participants.

The Latino Academy of Workforce Development graduated its first class of Bilingual Construction Program students in May, 2015. 25 students completed the 16-week, 128 hour program, and graduated prepared and ready for a career in the construction industry.

The Latino Academy is a partner of the Construction Employment Initiative (CEI). The Construction Employment Initiative consists of three City of Madison-supported construction training programs including YWCA’s Construct-U, Foundations for the Trades Academy and the Latino Academy Bilingual Construction Program. The CEI programs align with the City of Madison’s initiative to increase career opportunities in the construction industry for low-income and disenfranchised individuals.

 

Partners for the program include Construction Training, Inc.’s START program, Latino Academy of Workforce Development, Operation Fresh Start, Urban League of Greater Madison, Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin, WorkSmart Network and the YWCA. Funding sources for the program include the City of Madison, the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and the Wisconsin Fast Forward initiative.