Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board

BUILD YOUR FUTURE HERE Forging Careers in Construction Through Apprenticeships in the Trades

BUILDING OPPORTUNITY Paving the way for local workers

ValleyBuild focuses on moving people into high-paying construction jobs for infrastructure projects. PHOTO COURTESY OF FRWDB

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This is where ValleyBuild comes in. Covering 14 counties, alifornia’s Central Valley feeds the nation, and the ValleyBuild is a collaborative effort between FRWDB, Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board other workforce boards and construction trade councils. Its (FRWDB) is committed to ensuring the valley’s own six-week pre-apprenticeship training is “multi-craft,” spanning tables aren’t left empty. a variety of construction trades, and delivered by qualified With nearly $50 billion in infrastructure projects approved union trainers. The program leads for the area—even before factoring directly to apprenticeships, allowing in federal infrastructure funds—the participants to earn while they learn. valley has a chance for a significant The near future will offer plenty economic boost. This is vital, as of high-paying, union jobs, but three of the five poorest census the valley will suffer if those jobs tracts in California are located here. aren’t filled locally. Konczal said, However, a shortage of skilled “It’s lost opportunity if we can’t workers threatens to limit the impact keep that money here. Those jobs of these projects. will be filled. If they’re not filled “The notion that you could by workers here, they’ll be filled by have immensely valuable work workers from out of the area.” passing through some of the poorest BLAKE KONCZAL, Projects like a new $500 million areas, without making those jobs FRWDB Executive Director surface water treatment plant could available to the people living provide jobs for local workers, there—something is really wrong keeping the economic benefits in with that,” said Blake Konczal, the community. “The workers here FRWDB executive director. “It’s in the valley have a wonderful work ethic,” Konczal said. like walking a starving man past a buffet and saying, ‘Don’t “All they need is the training to be competitive for those touch that food.’” apprentice slots.”

The key to accessing those opportunities is training. The Does Konczal remain optimistic?

FRWDB, acting as a “training broker,” facilitates programs that “I know we move the needle for those we are able to touch,” move unemployed and underemployed residents into wellpaying jobs. Agriculture is still the valley’s economic backbone, he said. but opportunities are expanding beyond farming. Training is also offered for the growing health care and forestry sectors, but the largest opportunity lies in construction—particularly with well-funded infrastructure projects.

“The workers here in the valley have a wonderful work ethic.”

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VALLEYBUILD INFRASTRUCTURE STUDY (2020-2031)

$47 BILLION

in planned infrastructure projects over 10 years.

KEY SECTORS: $21.6 billion in transportation improvements (streets, highways, bridges).

$4 billion in solar energy projects.

$4.1 billion in public building construction.

$2.2 billion in water and wastewater improvements.

Projects will create 41,000 jobs, including 16,000 in transportation.

BREAKING BARRIERS Creating opportunities for underserved communities

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inding a high-paying job without a college degree can ValleyBuild aims to break down employment barriers. Basic be challenging, especially in rural areas. ValleyBuild is requirements include being 18 years of age and having a high working to change that. school diploma, with some areas also requiring a valid driver’s This program connects California workforce boards with license and transportation. To further support participants, construction trades across 14 counties, from Bakersfield to ValleyBuild provides wraparound services—work boots, Stockton, preparing candidates for trade union apprenticeships. personal protective equipment, fuel incentives, stipends based ValleyBuild helps under-served communities find living on family size, and childcare during training. “We want to wages in construction trades while opening doors for career remove as many obstacles as possible,” said David Hudgins, advancement.

ValleyBuild Coordinator for Kern County.

“Our number one goal is to get ValleyBuild NOW is a version them a union placement because we of the program for women with know that they’re going to be taken graduates achieving high placement care of and have amazing benefits,” rates in the industry as plumbers, said Beatriz Lopez, ValleyBuild sheet metal workers, bricklayers, and Coordinator for Fresno. “That’s not cement masons. “It’s been fantastic,” common in areas like this. There’s a Lopez said. Women are “welcomed, lot of low income.” and the trades are super-excited and ValleyBuild is a Multiinviting. They want to make sure that Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) it’s possible for these women to be a pre-apprenticeship program, lasting part of it.” four to ten weeks. It provides The program also helps those BEATRIZ LOPEZ ValleyBuild Coordinator for Fresno participants with training in safety seeking a second chance. James procedures like OSHA 30, CPR/first Hanson visits prisons and rehab aid, heavy machinery operation, and centers to recruit participants. hazardous materials transportation.

“There’s a humanistic element to They also gain soft skills like interviewing and resume building. it,” Hanson says. “Let’s say you have a single mom on public Most importantly, participants meet with local trade unions. assistance … She exits the program and is immediately making “We have the various unions come out and speak with the $28.50 an hour … She can now provide for her family without participants and kind of do a career day,” said James Hanson, assistance … There’s light at the end of the tunnel. Success ValleyBuild Coordinator in the Mother Lode area. They learn stories like that are amazing.” about entry requirements, membership fees, and assessments for all the different unions.

“Our number one goal is to get them a union placement...”

ValleyBuild graduates earned valuable certifications upon completing pre-apprenticeship program. PHOTO COURTESY OF FRWDB

WHAT IS MC3?

The Multi-Craft Core Curriculum: is a standardized pre-apprenticeship training program that sets aspiring workers up for success in union apprenticeships within the construction industry. It provides foundational skills and knowledge in: Safety training

Construction math

Hands-on tools experience

Trade exploration

Workplace readiness

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TURNING SETBACKS INTO SUCCESS Guidance and training can create leaders from life’s lowest points

FINDING EMPLOYMENT: Jerry Irvin helps ValleyBuild participants succeed in their own transformative journeys. PHOTO BY CORY MAYO

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Irvin finds his new career fulfilling, noting that it’s hen Jerry Irvin joined ValleyBuild, he was a single rewarding to positively impact the lives of those he recruits. He father relying on unemployment benefits after his autoalso mentioned that the training programs continue to achieve body shop folded during the COVID-19 shutdowns. He great success, with a growing number of participants. described this as one of the darkest periods of his life.

He credits ValleyBuild as the springboard that launched Irvin knew he needed to make a change and decided to his life onto a trajectory of success. “The program was seek training to secure a job working in construction for amazing and it definitely changed the California High-Speed Rail my life,” he said. “If it wasn’t for Authority. He was referred to ValleyBuild, I wouldn’t be in the ValleyBuild, where he met Ashley position I am now.”

Matthews, Special Projects Manager Although there is a long waitlist, for the Fresno Regional Workforce the FRWDB aims to recruit an Development Board, who recruited additional 500 individuals to him into the program. training programs over the next Upon graduation, Irvin was few years. Irvin is happy to help offered a vacant position as a Project recruit new participants and says his Coordinator for the FRWDB. He experience makes it easy to build now assists with managing the those critical relationships.

Greater Sierra Forestry Corps and JERRY IRVIN, “I think the reason I connect so ValleyBuild programs, focusing on ValleyBuild Graduate and Regional well with the participants is because ways to enhance the programs and Outreach Coordinator for FRWDB I can put myself in their shoes. I was pay it forward to the next cohort of in their shoes just two years ago,” participants.

Irvin said. “When I hear their stories Matthews noted Irvin’s natural and look in their eyes, I know they believe me when I tell them leadership and mentoring abilities during his time in the that I need six months of their life for forestry or a month and a program. “He was a leader among his peers and a mentor to the younger students,” she said. “When it came time for graduation, half for ValleyBuild to change their lives. They all believe me and sign on.”

I asked him to be the class speaker. He did a great job and had so many opportunities afterward.”

“If it wasn’t for ValleyBuild, I wouldn’t be in the position I am now.”

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WHAT SKILLED TRADES OFFER APPRENTICESHIPS FOR VALLEYBUILD GRADUATES? IBEW // International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Teamsters // International Brotherhood of Teamsters BAC // International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers IUPAT // International Union of Painters and Allied Trades LIUNA // Laborers’ International Union of North America SMART // Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers UA // Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders and Service Techs Roofers // United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers IUOE // International Union of Operating Engineers Boilermakers // International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers OPCMIA // Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association

Enrique Anchondo found a new path in sheet metal work through ValleyBuild’s training program. PHOTO COURTESY OF FRWDB

FINDING CAREERS Layoffs lead to rewarding opportunities

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Initially interested in becoming an electrician, Anchondo hen Bitwise Industries closed in 2023, laying off changed his mind after visiting the sheet metal union. Watching hundreds of Fresno-area workers, Enrique Anchondo an instructor transform a flat piece of metal into a toolbox found himself at a crossroads. With 15 years of sparked his passion for sheet metal work. maintenance experience, including three years in tenant After completing the program, Anchondo began working improvement work, he was searching for a more stable with Sheet Metal Workers’ Union Local No. 104 to fulfill his and fulfilling career. That’s when Workforce Connection 200-hour transitional job requirement. Soon after, he was hired stepped in to provide the tools he needed to succeed in the

by Patton Air, where he continues to build his career. construction industry.

“The speed to career is special,” says Franco. “Getting them Funded and directed by the Fresno Regional Workforce from unemployment to employment Development Board, Workforce can happen very quickly.”

Connection offers participants While Anchondo is grateful access to more than 120 services for the program’s support, Franco and programs designed to help them credits his determination. “Enrique excel in a variety of careers. For is a shining example of what can those with a background or interest be accomplished when grit and in construction, like Anchondo, the determination meet the resources organization often connects them to of a program like ValleyBuild,” she ValleyBuild, a program that provides says. hands-on training and connections to For Anchondo, the experience union opportunities. has been life-changing. “I would not “It’s the full solution,” says Garret have known this sheet metal union Lecat, rapid response coordinator for existed if I hadn’t gone through Workforce Connection. “Participants ValleyBuild,” he says. “I can see go through job readiness workshops myself doing that every day and on soft skills such as resume writing ENRIQUE ANCHONDO enjoying it.” and interview skills before they even ValleyBuild Graduate / Pattonair Workforce Connection and meet with unions.”

Employee programs like ValleyBuild don’t just When re-employment specialist help workers find jobs—they help Izabell Franco met Anchondo after them build lasting careers, creating his layoff, she saw his potential and ripples of positive impact throughout the community. encouraged him to explore ValleyBuild. Anchondo, feeling stuck in limbo, was ready for a change. “I wanted to find something I could do for the rest of my life, be comfortable in, and stick to it,” he says.

“I would not have known this sheet metal union existed if I hadn’t gone through ValleyBuild.”

HOW DO YOU BECOME A UNION APPRENTICE? (EXAMPLE)

PATHWAY TO SMART 104 (SHEET METAL WORKERS):

The path to a skilled trade apprenticeship varies by craft. ValleyBuild helps you explore options and navigate the process.

Apply (accepted year-round)

Be 18+ with a High School Diploma/GED and valid CDL

Pass a 3-part entrance exam (Math, Mechanical Comprehension, Verbal)

Pass an in-person interview.

Qualified candidates are placed on a waiting list for contractor hiring.

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LAYING GROUNDWORK Pre-apprenticeships give students a leg up

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Nidia Chicas used skills gained through ValleyBuild to build a stable and fulfilling career in construction.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FRWDB

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION ValleyBuild identified key barriers women face in construction and is addressing them through: Financial Assistance: Support for childcare, transportation, and training costs.

Awareness and Mentorship: Promoting trades and offering strong female role models.

All-Women’s Cohorts: ValleyBuild NOW launched in 2023.

Diversity Training: Implementing 10 DEI training modules to reduce harassment.

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idia Chicas has done a lot in her life: assistant cook, school secretary, retail manager, and more. But as a mother of seven, she wanted something better for her family.

“I was tired of going from job, to job, to job,” she says. “I wanted something more stable and more secure for me and my family in the long run.”

Chicas turned to Workforce Connection, which connected her with ValleyBuild, a pre-apprenticeship program for the construction trades. The program’s short training period, flexible schedule, and job security — including preparation to apply for union membership — appealed to her.

Chicas recalls how joining the union brought stability to her life. “I used to worry about bills and how I was going to pay,” she says. “Now I don’t worry because I always have a consistent job.” She adds that the flexible hours let her spend more time with her children, something she missed when working multiple jobs. “Financially, physically, and emotionally, a lot has changed with me joining the union,” she says.

Today, Chicas is a taper apprentice with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Local Union 294, District 16, a position ValleyBuild helped her secure. As an apprentice, her training is paid, and she receives medical benefits and pension contributions — a stark contrast to many career paths.

“With the trades, you’re not in debt going into a field of work,” she says. “If you go to college, you’re there a long time and come out with debt. Here, you’re getting hands-on skills, and it’s a short period of time.”

The demand for construction jobs is growing across California, and ValleyBuild equips participants with foundational knowledge for a range of positions.

“People can join apprenticeship programs without ValleyBuild,” says Jeffery Roberts, Regional Director of District Council 16, Local Union 294. “But I’d rather have people who went through ValleyBuild because it prepares them. These aren’t jobs; these are careers. They’re immediately getting money for health care and pensions.”

For Chicas, financial stability is important, but so is setting an example for her children. Her eldest son is interested in construction, and she’s proud to show him alternatives to the “traditional” path.

“There are so many options where you can succeed and have a good, decent career without going to college,” she says.

“Some people are stuck on the system, but there’s way more out there.”

“I wanted something more stable and more secure for me and my family in the long run.”

NIDIA CHICAS Taper apprentice, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Local Union 294, District 16

Alexis Rowberry’s passion for electrical work transformed her life with skills that light the way to a brighter future. PHOTO

BY GARY KAZANJIAN

CREATING INCLUSIVE PRACTICES Women succeed in maledominated fields

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fter surviving homelessness and working minimumwage jobs, Alexis Rowberry decided it was time to find a higher-paying career to support herself and her two young children.

Today, Rowberry is starting her fifth and final year as an apprentice with IBEW Local Union 100 and aims to become a foreman. She says ValleyBuild’s free construction training program “changed my life. My life is completely different because they gave me an opportunity.”

Rowberry first learned about ValleyBuild through an ad at a California Department of Social Services office. “I figured, ‘Construction is going to pay me right now. I don’t have to wait and get a degree or anything,’” she recalls.

During training, Rowberry and her classmates spent weekdays visiting trade unions, learning about different professions, and completing hands-on projects like building brick walls, making metal toolboxes, and connecting lightbulbs to switches.

“I already knew I wanted to be an electrician from day one.

That was my goal,” Rowberry says.

Another ValleyBuild recruit, Maribel Andres of Fresno, joined the program in 2022 after considering a career as an EMT. After learning about the benefits of construction work, including a pension, the choice was clear. “It was an easy decision to make,” she says.

Today, Andres is a plumbing apprentice at Plumbers, Pipefitters, HVACR Technicians Local 246. Like Rowberry, she says ValleyBuild provided

vital resources, including math classes, mock interviews, and certifications in CPR and safety training.

While both women benefited from the program, they note they were often among only a few women in their classes.

“But ValleyBuild has been pushing heavily to bring women into the trades,” says Robert Topete, director of training for the Fresno Area Plumbers, Pipefitters, and HVACR Technicians Training Center. Initiatives like ValleyBuild NOW (Non-traditional Occupations for Women) have organized all-women cohorts, significantly boosting female participation.

“Anytime I had questions or needed something, they gave me what I needed to get through the program,” Rowberry says.

“I have so much independence because I don’t need financial help. It’s an amazing feeling.”

“ValleyBuild changed my life. My life is completely different because they gave me an opportunity.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRWDB

ALEXIS ROWBERRY ValleyBuild Participant & Electrical Apprentice with IBEW Local Union 100

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EQUIPPING APPRENTICES

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nion construction jobs are highly coveted for their pay, ValleyBuild’s pre-apprenticeship readiness program benefits, and worker protections. However, for those addresses these challenges by preparing participants with the outside the industry, the path to joining a union isn’t skills and connections they need to succeed. Participants gain always clear. a competitive edge through certifications like CPR, OSHA “Many folks in the trade unions 10, and forklift operation, while grew up knowing about them also learning hands-on skills and because of a family member,” says improving their interview techniques.

Alissa Reed, executive secretary of “ValleyBuild participants get the Kern, Inyo, and Mono Building certifications that jump off the page,” and Construction Trades Council. says Corey Van Rys, secretary“But that’s not a large percentage treasurer of the Valley Building and of the population. Typically, most Construction Trades Council. “It people have no clue this is a pathway shows a prospective employer that available to them.” this person has invested in themselves.

Even when people understand It makes them more valuable than ALISSA REED the value of union jobs, the process an 18-year-old who walks in off the Executive Secretary of Kern, Inyo, of entering an apprenticeship can street wanting a job.” and Mono Building and Construction Trades Council be daunting. Some unions have The program also helps entrance exams requiring specific participants explore the trades math knowledge, while others prefer through direct connections with union applicants with on-site training or affiliates, making the process more safety certifications like OSHA 10. With over a dozen trades, transparent and accessible. “Apprenticeship can be nepotistic,” each with its own union, many aspiring workers may not know says Chuck Riojas, secretary-treasurer of the Fresno, Madera, where to start.

Kings, and Tulare Building and Construction Trades Council.

“What we’ve been doing the last decade is trying to expose the

“Union membership is a pathway to the middle class.”

Certifications give workers a competitive edge community to what we do. ValleyBuild is a key part of that.”

ValleyBuild actively recruits from marginalized communities, partnering with high schools, probation departments, and community-based organizations to reach justice-impacted individuals and others traditionally excluded from construction careers. ValleyBuild NOW, an all-female cohort, bridges the gender gap by offering opportunities for women in the trades.

“Union membership is a pathway to the middle class,” says Reed. “It allows people to support a family and sets them up for success.”

Van Rys agrees that unionized construction offers workers critical protections against exploitation. “You can have a very successful career through a union. Your job isn’t tied to one employer, and you’re always contributing to your retirement and healthcare,” he says.

WHAT INDUSTRYRECOGNIZED CERTIFICATIONS CAN I EARN? The MC3 curriculum includes these essential safety certifications:

Alissa Reed is passionate about opening pathways to union apprenticeships for underrepresented communities. PHOTO BY JUNIOR TOBIAS

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•

ValleyBuild MC3 Certificate of Completion

•

CPR/1st Aid Certification

•

OSHA 10 or 30

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Hazwoper 40

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Hazard Waste Awareness

•

Forklift Safety

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Scissor Lift Safety

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Scaffolding Safety

•

Blue Print Reading

Ask your project coordinator about the availability of certifications in your county.

MODELING BEST PRACTICES

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Leaders endorse innovative training programs

alleyBuild’s provision of career opportunities that lift individuals out of poverty while addressing critical workforce shortages in the construction industry is supported by the California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) and the State Building and Construction Trades Council of California (SBCTC). In fact, the program has become a model for workforce training and development across the state.

“ValleyBuild is an impressively innovative project that has long set the standard for what HRCC can be at its very best,” says Marc Cowan, field specialist on the CWDB’s Equity, Climate, and Jobs Team. “They are a flagship of the HRCC Initiative, and much of what they have implemented around recruitment, training, and supportive services have been singled out by the CWDB as best practices for partnerships statewide.”

“ValleyBuild is an impressively innovative project that has long set the standard...”

MARC COWAN Equity, Climate, and Jobs Field Specialist at California Workforce Development Board

Jeremy Smith, chief of staff at the SBCTC, highlights the importance of ValleyBuild’s connections with local trade unions. “ValleyBuild is so sophisticated that they have maintained many of their union connections themselves, but we stand ready to help with any new connections they need to continue serving individuals seeking assistance,” he says.

ValleyBuild’s four-to-10-week program offers intensive coursework, including Bridge to MC3 Construction, Math, Vocational English as a Second Language, and safety training.

It also prepares future apprentices with work hours, tools, and attire, equipping them to meet the demands of construction careers.

“The ValleyBuild Program lifts people out of poverty by connecting them to middle-class careers in the building and construction trades,” Cowan explains. “It also provides California with the skilled workforce needed to build and maintain infrastructure critical to our economy.”

This comprehensive approach ensures that ValleyBuild graduates are not only job-ready but also prepared for long-term

(Left) Marc Cowan appreciates ValleyBuild’s best practices that inspire workforce programs across California. (Right) Jeremy Smith supports ValleyBuild’s mission by strengthening ties between the program and local trade unions. PHOTOS BY ANNE STOKES

Graduates leave the program knowing the value of early starts, hard work, and professional standards. By combining technical training with practical support, ValleyBuild continues to transform lives while addressing critical workforce needs in California’s construction sector.

success. By setting high standards for recruitment, training, and support, the program reduces attrition rates and helps participants thrive in their chosen trades.

“The MC3 certification sets ValleyBuild graduates apart,” Smith notes. “It ensures participants have chosen the right trade and are ready to meet the demands of the industry.”

Projections 2024-2026 Total: $12,491,812

Investments 2020-2024 Total: $6,087,390 $1,496,214 $3,083,084

SAN JOAQUIN

$293,939 $967,415

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$262,121 $1,078,881 Investments for 2020-2024 are represented by numbers in black.

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TU

$327,595 $1,443,860

E MN OLU

US LA

M

C ER

ED

MA

$2,453,531 $3,506,724

RA DE

FRESNO

TULARE KINGS

Projections for 2024-2026 are represented by numbers in yellow.

This program is 100% supported by the High Road Construction Careers Resilient Workforce Fund (RWF) Program as part of the awards totaling $8,825,127.00, with 0% financed from non-federal sources. The Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board is an equal opportunity employer and program.

Auxiliary aids and services are available by request to individuals with disabilities and/or limited English.

KERN

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$1,253,989 $2,411,848

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VOLUNTEERING BUILDS BRIDGES

Partnerships foster empathy and construction skills

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ince May 2023, ValleyBuild students have been volunteering at Habitat for Humanity Greater Fresno Area building sites, where they gain hands-on experience and help construct homes for local families. Known as the ValleyBuild Community Project, this collaboration offers students practical training while supporting Habitat’s mission with skilled volunteers.

“When you have volunteers with a few tips and tricks under their belt, you can potentially get a lot more done,” says Celena Genest, Habitat’s Volunteer Engagement Coordinator. “We have a goal for the day, and the ValleyBuild group typically blows that goal out of the water, whatever the task is.”

Rick O’Daniel, Habitat’s construction director, notes that ValleyBuild students recently handled the more complex task of pre-building framing elements for a future home, rather than the simpler tasks typically assigned to volunteers.

“The fact that the students came with some basic construction training reduced the typical learning curve,” O’Daniel says. “They were prepared to learn the physical skills for the day such as cutting, measuring, and nailing framing members.”

Beatriz Lopez, Senior Project Coordinator for ValleyBuild, explains that the volunteer hours extend the training students receive, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world scenarios. “They’re able to do hands-on projects that help families in our area,” she says.

This partnership provides mutual benefits. For Habitat, the addition of skilled volunteers allows projects to progress more efficiently. For students, the experience reinforces the training they’ve received and builds confidence in their abilities. Many participants leave with a deeper appreciation for the physical and technical demands of construction, as well as a sense of accomplishment from directly helping families.

For some students, the emotional rewards are as significant as the practical ones. Genest estimates that roughly 15% of the 60-80 ValleyBuild participants she’s worked with have returned to volunteer after graduation. “It’s absolutely amazing,” she says. “Someone volunteers one time and is so moved by our mission that they continue to volunteer with us. We couldn’t ask for anything more.”

“A graduate of the women-focused ValleyBuild NOW program negotiated a raise with her employer after helping them read blueprints,” Lopez shares. Training with Habitat’s licensed

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THINK YOU’RE A GOOD FIT FOR VALLEYBUILD? Top, Rick O’Daniel guides ValleyBuild students through hands-on construction tasks, sharing skills for future careers. PHOTO COURTESY OF FRWDB

THIS IS WHAT IT TAKES:

Bottom, Celena Genest values ValleyBuild students as a skilled resource for helping families while gaining hands-on training. PHOTO BY PETER MAIDEN

Reliable: Be on time with excellent attendance.

contractors prepared her for that moment, allowing her to step up when no one else could.

This partnership doesn’t just build houses—it builds futures.

The hands-on experience offers participants more than career pathways; it provides a foundation for lasting change in their lives and communities.

Safety-Minded: Stay aware and prioritize safety.

“We have a goal for the day, and the ValleyBuild group typically blows that goal out of the water, whatever the task is.”

CELENA GENEST Habitat for Humanity’s Volunteer Engagement Coordinator

Committed: Dedicate yourself to your growth and future.

Physically Active: Meet the physical demands of construction.

Team-Oriented: Work well and collaborate with others.

Positive Attitude: Face challenges with optimism.

Leadership Potential: Step up and take charge when needed.

CONNECTING STUDENTS Collegiate partnerships open career paths

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egional colleges are helping ValleyBuild expand its training program by partnering to provide trainees with pathways to earning college credit and advancing their careers. These efforts aim to address an aging workforce and the growing demand for skilled construction workers in California’s Central Valley, where unfilled construction jobs have led to economic challenges such as higher housing costs and infrastructure issues.

Fresno City College (FCC) is among the institutions collaborating with ValleyBuild, aligning the program with community college standards to allow participants to earn college credit. “The [Multi-Craft Core Curriculum] (MC3) offered at FCC is equivalent to ValleyBuild’s training course,” says Dr. Becky Barabe, Dean of Applied Technology at FCC. “This provides participants and students the opportunity to continue their education in construction and trades programs.”

“Not only are we getting them the training to be workforce ready, but it is also huge for the economic potential for these participants...”

AUTUMN GARDIA Director of Special Projects and Grants at Merced College

Dr. Becky Barabe advocates for integrating trades education with college opportunities at Fresno City College. PHOTO BY CORY MAYO

In response to evolving industry standards, academic credits and certificates are becoming more desirable qualifications for leadership roles in the trades. “Now we are trying to assist workers with this education to help with their leadership and management development,” Barabe explains.

FCC’s MC3 curriculum proposal, approved by its local committee last April, is pending approval by the state chancellor’s office. Once finalized, ValleyBuild graduates— past and future—will be able to request college credit through prior learning assessments. Discussions are also underway to collaborate with local high schools, enabling students to complete the MC3 course during their high school years.

Merced College is also partnering with ValleyBuild and plans to establish the first co-located ValleyBuild campus on its grounds. Currently in the planning stages, Merced College will offer lab space and facilities for the MC3 curriculum alongside its existing programs in welding, HVAC, and industrial electrical.

“We’re excited to offer this training locally and provide participants with college credits for their efforts,” says Autumn Gardia, Director of Special Projects and Grants at Merced College. The first cohort is scheduled to launch in March 2025.

Beyond workforce readiness, these partnerships are poised to drive long-term economic growth. “Not only are we getting them the training to be workforce ready, but this also has huge economic potential,” Gardia says. “Education can lead to management and supervisory positions, which benefit both the individual and the community.”

WHAT IS PREVAILING WAGE? For over 80 years, California’s prevailing wage laws have required public works bidders to use uniform wage rates, preventing competition based on lower pay.

These rates are typically set by collective bargaining agreements.

SAMPLE APPRENTICE STARTING AND ENDING PREVAILING WAGES: Electrician (Fresno County):

$20.25 - $40.50

Cement Mason (Kern County):

$22.75 - $40.95

Sheet Metal Worker (San Joaquin County): $26.71 - $43.70 Plumber (Merced County):

$24.32 - $48.65

Roofer (Stanislaus County):

$24.09 - $41.53 ValleyBuild

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BUILD YOUR

FUTURE HERE

THE VALLEYBUILD PROJECT SERVES THESE COUNTIES Fresno Madera Kings Inyo

Tulare Stanislaus Merced Tuolumne Mariposa

San Joaquin Calaveras Alpine Kern Mono

valleybuild.net

This program is 100% supported by the High Road Construction Careers Resilient Workforce Fund (RWF) program as part of awards totaling $8,825,127.00 with 0% financed from non-federal sources. Funded through the Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board, an equal opportunity employer and program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities and/or limited English.

AWARENESS JOURNALISM PUBLICATIONS Stories that move people.

Produced for ValleyBuild by N&R Publications, www.nrpubs.com