Demographic data from the 2010 Census indicates that more has to be done to support African Americans and low-income communities. Without education, workforce training, decent employment and livable wages many individuals do not have the opportunity to escape from poverty, own their own homes or adequately support their families.
Our programequips those who are traditionally disenfranchised or discouraged from participation with a new sense of democracy, education and opportunities. Our goal is to create self-sufficient individuals and families.
The United Steelworkers partnered with the Pittsburgh APRI Education Fund and began the Breaking the Chains of Poverty (BTCP) program in 2009. This program has successfully served more than 170 individuals and has placed 62% of those individuals in jobs.
Our graduates acquire state-of-the-art training, tools, and theory used by the building and construction industry. They also have a competitive edge because our training specializes in environmentally sustainable practices.
The skills obtained in the program are in high demand and are transferable to many industries. The core program consists of approved training modules that are industry driven and constantly enhanced by bringing new employers to the table. Our graduates enjoy career placement assistance and networking opportunities.
To be considered for the program you:
Must be at least 18 years of age
High school diploma or GED
Must be drug free
A valid driver’s license is preferred
Must be or become a registered voter
To qualify, you must take the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE)
You must successfully complete and pass the panel interview.
The program focuses on key topics in building, construction and energy-related industries such as:
Environmental Literacy
Water, Waste and Energy
Building and Construction
Health, Food and Agriculture
Community Organization and Leadership
Financial Literacy and Social Entrepreneurship
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Green Chemistry and Carbon Footprint
Tools, Instruments and Measures
Building and Construction Math
Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
A stipend will be provided for students who meet the program expectations to assist them with basic life needs. We are also in a partnership with multiple community-based organizations that offer assistance to individuals with specific barriers.
Graduates will receive the following four certifications that are recognized and preferred by our employer partners:
NIEHS OSHA-30 Hr. Con.
NIEHS HAZWOPER
Mold Remediation
Roots of Success
PennDOT Flagger Certification
American Heart Association CPR and First Aid
Some of our employers have included:
Carpenters Union Local 142
Cement Masons Local 526
Construction Junction
GPX Environmental
Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Jackson Clark Partners
Lennox National Account Services
Mount Washington CDC
Pennsylvania Transformer Technology, Inc.
PJ Dick, Inc.
RWIV Construction
Wind Stax™ Wind Power Systems
United Steelworkers
Entry Requirements:
Participate in a panel interview
Pass a drug and alcohol screen
Meet academic requirements
Ability to obtain Driver’s License
Expectations:
NO ABSENCES DURING TRAINING
Only one late permitted during the first 15 days of training
Must comply with dress, grooming, and behavior standards
Maintain positive ratings on weekly evaluations
Training Program (Includes weekly stipend):
Education
Academic support in reading and math
Computer instruction
Job Readiness and Placement
Resume preparation
Interview techniques
Job search and the Green Economy
Life Skills
Conflict resolution
Time management
Financial literacy
Human and worker rights
Technical Training
Hazard Waste Operation and Emergency Response
OSHA 30
Mold Remediation
Carbon Footprint
Weatherization and Energy Auditing
Green chemistry, health, environment and communities
Demographic data from the 2010 Census indicates that more has to be done to support African Americans
The United Steelworkers partnered with the Pittsburgh APRI Education Fund and began the
Our graduates acquire state-of-the-art training, tools, and theory used by the building and construction industry.
The skills obtained in the program are in high demand and are transferable to many industries.
