The carpenters union has long been a pivotal force in the construction industry, advocating for skilled labor, fair wages and comprehensive training. Recently, its efforts have focused on innovative partnerships with various community groups, aiming to enhance workforce development and create promising career pathways for young individuals. These collaborations, supported by grants and community initiatives, exemplify the union’s commitment to fostering a skilled and diverse workforce. Such partnerships not only enhance career opportunities, but help communities flourish by providing young adults with the tools for lifelong success.
“We fully support and welcome student graduates from high school programs like One Stop Centers and the 311 programs,” Anthony Abrantes, assistant executive secretary-treasurer of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, said. “These programs provide invaluable training and knowledge, helping students develop the skills necessary to thrive in our industry and build generational wealth for their communities. By embracing these young, motivated individuals, we not only strengthen our workforce, but also ensure a bright future for the construction trades.”
One of the most significant examples of this type of collaboration is the hands-on introductory career training program launched at the Newark Workforce Development Board One Stop Center. This program, which ran from July 8-Aug. 1, provided just under 100 Newark residents ages 18-24 with 40 hours of construction training and 40 hours of OSHA training. Participants earned three college credits, a Level 1 Career Connections certificate and OSHA 30 certification, all of which are crucial credentials for a career in carpentry.
The One Stop Shop program ran into an issue, which was space for the training. This is where Maplewoodshop, a signatory contractor to the carpenters union, came in. It created portable work benches and tool kits that allow almost any location to transform into a carpentry classroom. This program is an example of innovative “pop-up flexibility.” Since the NWDB center lacks hands-on facilities, the training sessions utilized the Maplewoodshop portable workstations in conference rooms. This approach not only made the best use of available space, but demonstrated the program’s adaptability and effectiveness.
“We constantly hear about thinking outside the box, and this is what we did,” Mike Schloff, a signatory contractor and owner of Maplewoodshop, said. “We didn’t let the lack of facilities stop us from introducing valuable carpentry skills to Newark residents who have a strong work ethic and are interested in entering a career with a promising future.”
A highlight of the Newark initiative is that high school students from the local Barringer High School’s 311 program served with the carpenters as teaching assistants. The 311 Credential program recognizes students with a keen interest and talent in the trades, providing them with opportunities to hone these skills through practical experience and classroom learning.
“Our goal with this apprenticeship program is to give students a strong foundation for their careers by equipping them with the essential skills needed in Newark’s job market,” said Elliot Washor, co-founder, Big Picture Learning. “This program is a strong, foundational boost for the students, the city of Newark and its communities.”
The 311 program is where the Carpenters and Barringer work to educate high school students in the trades. The fact that these students assisted in the education of fellow Newark residents is a shining example of union values that unite the students with their community.
The outcomes of this program were a stunning success. After completion, participants who met specific criteria, including program completion certification, a résumé, a recommendation letter, OSHA 30 certification and a high school diploma or equivalent, were guaranteed interviews with local union contractors and carpenters. These included the EASRCC 253, Local 251 floor layers, Local 715 millwrights and Local 252 mill cabinet.
“We proudly welcome student graduates from high school initiatives like the 311 program that prepares them for careers in construction,” Jill Schiff, chief operating officer, Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey, said. “These programs equip students with foundational skills, hands-on experience and a strong work ethic, which are essential for success in our industry. By fostering the next generation of construction professionals, we ensure the continued growth and innovation of our field while providing meaningful career opportunities for young individuals.”
Another local initiative is the Women & Minorities in Construction grant program, issued by the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development to the Newark Workforce Development Board. It aims to provide exposure and training programs for Newark residents 18 and over who represent communities of color and women seeking to enter nontraditional occupations. This grant underscores the commitment to creating inclusive opportunities for all, ensuring that the benefits of these programs reach a broad and diverse audience.
“We welcome everyone who is looking for a career with good pay, benefits and a bright future,” Cyndie Williams, executive director of the Carpenter Contractor Trust, said. “We have a firm commitment to open the doors for career opportunities for anyone who demonstrates a strong work ethic, an interest in learning and who is willing to accept a challenge. It is a commitment that our union programs deliver.”
The potential for this training model to be replicated across New Jersey is strong.
“With wider support and exposure about this program, we are confident that we have broadened the career choices for our youth throughout the state,” Karen Gaylord, executive director, Newark Workforce Development Board, said. “Union support and training gives these students a career lifeline in construction they might not have known existed previously.”
The collaboration between the Carpenters Union and community partners, including Maplewoodshop, demonstrates how a forward-thinking approach to workforce development can succeed. Through innovative training programs, hands-on learning and a commitment to diversity, these initiatives are creating valuable career pathways for young individuals. As these efforts continue to expand and evolve, they hold the promise of building a stronger, more skilled and inclusive workforce for the future.
This content was produced by Patty Grant, the industry and media relations manager for the Carpenter Contractor Trust.
