As the number of major construction projects in Detroit continues to grow, the City is preparing to launch a new program designed to train Detroiters for careers in construction and skilled trades.
The initiative will train Detroiters in the fundamental, math, reading and work readiness skills connected to jobs in the construction industry. The program is being developed and recruited by Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC), the City of Detroit’s workforce agency.
DESC has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking two training partners to run the program, which will include literacy and numeracy improvements, skilled trades career exploration and work readiness skills and supports. Classes will last 4-6 weeks and will begin this fall.
“Detroit is experiencing a real construction boom that is bringing with it a lot of well-paying jobs,” said Mayor Duggan. “The goal of this program is to help make sure city residents have the skills they need to fill these jobs so we can have a turnaround that includes Detroiters rebuilding Detroit.”
Graduates of the program, which is expected to launch later this fall, will have the skills necessary to immediately transition into a job or apprenticeship.
“Building a pipeline of Detroiters ready for careers in the construction industry is a huge priority for us,” said City of Detroit Workforce Development Director Jeff Donofrio. “This new program will help Detroiters find immediate employment on projects in our city or go on to enter into a construction certificate or skilled trades apprenticeship program.”
The RFP process calls for bids to be received at DESC’s downtown offices by 3.00pm local time September 23, with announcement of awards in early October. Training is anticipated to start in November and will complete before the end of 2016.
Organizations interested in responding to the RFP should visit www.DESCmiworks.com and click on the ‘About Us’ link. Individuals interested in participating in the training should visit the DESC website or call 1-800-285-WORKS for the location of their nearest DESC One-Stop Service Center.
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