REBUILDING TOGETHER NYC CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION TRANSFORMS LIVES

Rebuilding Together NYC is making a difference in the lives of many New Yorkers who want to build a better life.

Through its workforce development program Careers in Construction, Rebuilding Together NYC empowers low-income NYC residents with the development of lifesustaining careers. It aims to change lives by reskilling underemployed individuals in the construction trades.

Careers in Construction is a comprehensive six-week pre-apprenticeship program providing training and certifications. Students learn about the building trades, safety standards, union opportunities and more. It offers a pathway to better paying, sustainable jobs for low-income residents of color. This creates significant and meaningful opportunities for individuals and families to exit the cycle of poverty, join the middle class, and help contribute to a more equitable and inclusive workforce.

Student Successes

In 2022, 99 students were enrolled in the Careers in Construction program with 85 graduating and 81 placed into jobs.

Ricky went to Rebuilding Together NYC with the goal of transitioning into a new career with opportunities for growth. He was previously in the culinary field and shifted into health and office work during COVID. However, for Ricky those paths didn’t provide the skills needed for real growth.

What was most impactful about Careers in Construction for Ricky? He said working among his peers and building a brotherhood. The culinary industry was not as social and a very high-stress environment. Careers in Construction opened him to new skills and interpersonal relationships.

“The opportunity with the union saved my life. Once I stopped negotiating with myself, I can see things clearer. I have a pathway to success.”

He especially enjoyed the hands-on project. Students used the skills they learned and constructed a small house made of cardboard and other materials. They calculated the amount and cost of materials needed and presented their houses to classmates. Ricky came in 2nd place – his house even had a pool! The process really helped him incorporate the skills he learned and opened him to the creative process.

David graduated in October 2022 and is now working as a Drywall Taper and Plasterer with Allied Trades with District Council 9. He was deciding on a job or a career when his brother-in-law who completed the program referred him to Rebuilding Together NYC. David chose a career and enrolled in the program.

JOB PLACEMENT RATE

76%

One Year RETENTION RATE

85% 85%

He completed the program while working the overnight shift, traveling from the Bronx to Brooklyn for classes every morning. After graduation, David secured an apprentice position with District Council 9. He is currently attending school with the union and working in the field.

“The opportunity with the union saved my life. Once I stopped negotiating with myself, I can see things clearer. I have a pathway to success,” said David. ❧

$7.5 million

REINVESTED IN NYC COMMUNITIES THROUGH CONTRUCTION UNION PLACEMENTS SINCE 2019