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As National Apprenticeship Week continues, we’re shining light on initiatives that redefine career-connected learning for students in Washington. One example is the Construct a Career initiative, which is a standout example of how partners in the apprenticeship system work together to provide more opportunities in the construction trades.
Support that helps apprentices thrive
Washington’s Registered Apprenticeship system provides a powerful pathway to good jobs, but for many, getting in — and staying in — can be the hardest part.
Through a statewide network of apprenticeship navigators, Construct a Career participants get personalized guidance, help with the application process and access to transportation, childcare and other essential services. These can include fuel cards for long commutes, required boots and safety equipment, and connections to additional funding or community-based resources. For many apprentices, these small but critical supports make the difference between dropping out and staying on the job.
This approach is working. Construct a Career’s program data shows that apprentices connected to the initiative are seeing retention rates of about 90%, far above the average of 60% to 65% reported by Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee partners.
Alexandra’s path into the trades
Just as important, outreach is increasing participation among women and other underrepresented groups, ensuring more Washingtonians can access family-wage careers in the trades.
For Alexandra, a single parent entering an ironworker apprenticeship, Construct a Career’s support has been essential.
“Because of Construct a Career, I’ve been able to focus on my apprenticeship, keep providing for my son, and keep moving forward toward a career I’m proud of,” she said.
Alexandra faces an 80-mile daily commute and the demands of a new career. But a fuel card and basic work gear helped her stay on the job and focus on learning her trade.
Today, she remains employed and earns nearly $39 per hour as she builds long-term stability for her and her family.
More information about Construct a Career
The Washington State Building and Construction Trades Council’s Construct a Career initiative works in partnership with more than 40 Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees.
A Program Builder grant from Employment Security and Career Connect Washington supported the design and launch of the first phase of Construct a Career.
Today, Employment Security administers $19,050,717 in funds from the Good Jobs Challenge grant awarded to the Washington Student Achievement Council through the Washington Jobs Initiative. Part of those funds support Construct a Career in its second phase. Read more about the Washington Jobs Initiative on the Washington Student Achievement Council website.
The second phase focuses on targeted outreach to underrepresented populations and case management-level support to prospective apprentices. The initiative connects participants to opportunities across more than a dozen construction trades. Learn more about apprenticeship programs in the construction trades on the Construct a Career website.
This is the second in a 3-part blog series. Read our previous blog, Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week.