Introducing a Breakthrough Opportunity: Free Construction and Electrical Fast Track Training Program
SARASOTA, FL (August 22, 2023) — The shortage of skilled workers in the construction and electrical sectors has created a pressing need for accessible training initiatives. In response to the growing demand for skilled professionals, CareerEdge Funders Collaborative, the workforce development program of The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, is launching a basic construction and electrical skills training program. This program is designed to provide participants with a unique opportunity to acquire valuable skills and embark on a rewarding career journey, all for free.
Dan Sidler, VP of CareerEdge and Workforce Development, shared, “Our Fast Track Training Program aims to bridge a local skills gap by offering comprehensive training and equipping participants with practical knowledge, hands-on experience, and industry-recognized certifications, at no cost to the individual”.
The training is available to any Sarasota or Manatee County residents in two uniquely designed, and connected, FastTrack programs. Participants must commit to attending both programs.
- 10 weeks Basic Construction (+1 week for Professional Skills Training) from September 26th to December 14th meeting every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- 15 weeks Basic Electrical from January 9th to April 25th, meeting every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The training will take place at the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the education provider Technical Education Council (TEC). TEC uses a curriculum designed by the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER). NCCER is recognized by the construction industry as the leader in training, assessment, certification, and career development.
Upon completion students will earn NCCER credentials for each course and module including basic safety, introduction to construction math, hand tools, power tools, construction drawings, and basic rigging. In addition, the content includes an overview of the electrical craft including the structure of electrical systems, skills to follow blueprints, wiring install and navigating other electrical components such as circuit breaker panels, switches and light fixtures, basics safety, codes, testing, documentation, and general work of an electrician. During the 80-hour “Bridges to Careers” construction course, the participants will be introduced to local employers for job opportunities. One goal of the program is to help job seekers engage with employers seeking talent.
This training program is a testament to CareerEdge’s dedication to community development, workforce empowerment, and the growth of this vital industry. It is a platform for individuals to upskill and reskill, to take ownership in shaping their own career and to contribute to the overall progress of our local economy. Participants have the potential to be hired into careers starting with annual salaries of $33k, and if they continue into an approved apprenticeship program, they routinely receive wage increases as their skills continue to develop.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply at www.careeredgefunders.org. The application process is now open. Spaces are limited, and candidates will be selected based on their motivation, aptitude, and potential to thrive in the construction and electrical sectors as determined by their application and interview with CareerEdge staff.
