Workforce Challenge    

With no previous skills or knowledge of the construction industry, Calvin began the City Life Builders construction program with a long-term goal of becoming an electrician. He started training in January 2016 for the three-month program, funded by a U.S. Department of Labor grant administered by the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development, and has excelled so well that he gave the class speech at the graduation ceremony in May. 

Workforce Solution

As part of the program, Calvin received on-the-job training from a partnering minority construction company in East Baltimore and was hired part-time to work for the company while training. He attended certification courses and earned his Lead Renovator Certificate and OSHA 10 Certificate. He also had several mentors that provided one-on-one consulting on job readiness skills, financial literacy and legal aid.

Outcomes & Benefits

Upon completion of training, Calvin was immediately scheduled to interview for a full-time position with the construction company that trained him. If hired he will be enrolled in a four-year electrical apprenticeship program, paid for by the employer. He will receive 576 hours of classroom training and an increase in pay each year. At the completion of the apprenticeship, he will be a certified Journeyman.  “The certifications I got and the skills I learned in construction are helping me chase my dream of becoming an electrician,” said Calvin. “I believe all of this is going to help me get my career going."