Graduates of BuildnBeyond North Country Pre-Apprenticeship Program Celebrated

BuildnBeyond North Country recently celebrated 19 trainees who completed its free pre-apprenticeship program at the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing at Clinton Community College.

The July 31 graduation ceremony recognized participants who completed the comprehensive 180+ hour program, which prepares them for entry-level employment, registered apprenticeships and long-term careers in the construction and manufacturing industries.

Participants began with a shared core curriculum focused on skills essential to both fields. Training included OSHA 10, fall protection, craft orientation, industry awareness, financial literacy, construction math, first aid/CPR, hazard communication, diversity awareness and maintaining a harassment-free workplace.

After completing the core curriculum, participants chose either a construction or manufacturing pathway for industry-specific training. Construction-track participants received additional instruction in job-site safety, tools, materials, work practices and contractor expectations. Manufacturing-track participants studied blueprint reading, measurement, fabrication, quality control and other foundational manufacturing skills.

The program emphasized professional habits as well as technical training. Participants were expected to demonstrate dependable attendance, punctuality, teamwork, personal responsibility, respect for instructors and co-workers, and the ability to work safely and follow directions.

“These graduates did more than complete a series of classes. They showed up, worked hard, learned to work safely and proved that they are ready for the next step,” said Robert Monahan, program director for BuildnBeyond North Country. “The program gives participants a strong foundation and then allows them to develop skills in either construction or manufacturing. We are proud of all 19 graduates and grateful to NYPA and our program partners for helping make this opportunity possible.”

“BuildnBeyond was created to provide more than a few weeks of classroom instruction,” said Wayne Mackey, program administrator for BuildnBeyond North Country. “It was created to build a bridge between people who are looking for an opportunity and industries that are looking for dependable, trained workers.”

“This program creates opportunities for individuals who are ready to build a better future for themselves and their families while helping address workforce needs across our region,” said D. Billy Jones, vice president of strategic initiatives and workforce development at Clinton Community College. “Through their hard work and commitment, these graduates gained valuable skills and exposure to career pathways that can lead to long-term success in the workforce. We are proud to host BuildnBeyond North Country at the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing at Clinton Community College.”

Funding from the New York Power Authority enabled BuildnBeyond North Country to bring together labor, education, workforce development and community partners to provide participants with industry-based instruction, career awareness, supportive services and connections to employment and apprenticeship opportunities.

To be eligible for the BuildnBeyond North Country Pre-Apprenticeship Program, applicants must live in the North Country region, which includes Clinton, Essex or Franklin counties. Other requirements include being able to perform physical labor, being willing to travel throughout the North Country and being unemployed or working in a low-income job.

For more information, visit buildnbeyond.org.