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Why Get Started Now?
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News & Reminders
Spokane Consortium
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Spokane Public Schools © 2008, all rights reserved 200 N. Bernard Street • Spokane, WA 99201 • (509) 354-5900 |
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Congratulations on supporting your student as they explore, inquire and build a foundation of knowledge that will last a lifetime. Not only are employers in every industry looking for the skills/foundations that this training offers; the skilled trades are a respectable, honorable and empowering career choice.
Pursuing The Future While In High School
The Foundations for Construction program allows students to explore the different trade opportunities available while learning leadership skills and vital knowledge of safety. Students will also become active members of the community as they volunteer hours during summer break for Habitat for Humanity, learning from contractors and other tradespersons. Students will leave the program with their OSHA 10 and 30 cards, First Aid/CPR card, and multiple experiences including job shadowing in various areas. All of these tangible items will be placed in their portfolio that also includes: a general cover letter, resume, letters of recommendation, pictures of projects, completed program checklist, journal entries from job shadows, copy of birth certificate, drivers license, transcript and attendance record (see portfolio example). The Foundation for Construction website will have all the information needed to complete the program.
While a student participates in this program, it is important for continued success in all areas (all trades require math proficiency, for instance) of their education and regular attendance. The skilled trades, like colleges, are a privilege to be a part of and require hard work and dedication in the preparatory process. The skilled trades also require an application (and sometimes an interview) process that is comparable to college and takes time and effort on the student’s part. Therefore, it is vital to have a completed portfolio which, if the student chooses, may serve as a culminating project that meets current high school graduation requirements.
The Trades anticipate over one million new jobs in their field occurring in the next five to ten years due to growth and journeyperson eligibility for retirement. There are currently seventeen different trades in the Spokane area that all require “further education” after high school. During this time, students spend specific hours in a classroom setting, learning about their trade from instructors who are qualified journeypersons for many years. A majority of the time apprentices are working in the field earning a percentage of journey wages, (earn while you learn) with regular raises throughout the entire process.
For additional information or questions regarding ‘Foundation for Construction’ please contact us.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” |
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One of the largest industries, the construction trades will soon be facing a severe shortage of skilled workers. Now is a fantastic time to get involved and learn a skilled trade. If you see yourself as dependable, like to work with hands outdoors, have reliable transportation, punctual, team player, self-motivated and someone willing to learn, the skilled trades may be for you. The following are the minimum qualifications for majority of the trades:
- at least 18 years of age
- high school diploma or GED equivalent
- applied math skills
- pass a drug test
- valid driver’s license
For additional information and possible openings in the 16 different construction trades, contact either one of the following:
| Kathy Atha Business Solutions Associate Worksource Spokane 130 South Arthur St. Spokane, WA 99202 (509) 532-3133 katha@esd.wa.gov |
Linda Poage Program Manager Apprenticeship & Journeyman Training Center 2110 N. Fancher Way Spokane, WA 99212 (509) 533-8618 lpoage@scc.spokane.edu |
Evie Lawry |
With support from building trades and local contractors, Spokane Public Schools is well on the way to leading the state in making sure that qualified workers will be trained and ready to take on construction for decades to come.
A voluntary goal of 15% apprentice workforce participation for major construction projects (since adopted into state legislation) was enacted through school board resolution.
"This policy resolution, and subsequent state legislation will ensure future generations have a skilled workforce in the construction trades," says Superintendent Dr. Nancy Stowell. "It is obvious through the particpation rates we have seen thus far that the industry is supportive of our community efforts."
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