In so many ways, COVID-19 has made us pause and contemplate what the future will look like.
At Sound Transit, our mission to build a regional transit system that creates equitable opportunities for all is more vital than ever.
That can’t be done without skilled tradespeople - who help to connect our region while earning good money.
Sound Transit has partnered with organizations on construction job training programs to develop the workforce of the future.
For anyone looking to gain new skills or even a new career, these pre-apprenticeship programs are a great place to start.
Class is back in session for programs like ANEW, PACT and NWCI. Check out the links at the bottom of this article to learn more about these programs and others.
At the graduation ceremonies of the most recent cohorts, instructors and students shared what inspired them to pursue a career in the trades:
Note: this video was filmed in the fall of 2019, before COVID-19 paused some construction work and canceled in-person events like graduations.
Family-wage jobs offered by Sound Transit's construction projects will help thousands return to the workforce.
Many of the construction training programs we invest in emphasize providing opportunities to women, native tribes, people of color and other diverse groups.
Often, these programs provide support services during the training program, and help with job placement.
As the economy recovers, investments in new transit infrastructure projects could help deliver tens of thousands of daily riders to work.
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Sound Transit’s voter-approved multi-billion dollar investment in expanding the region’s transit system will bring job opportunities throughout Pierce, King and Snohomish counties.
We are currently building more than 40 miles of new light rail track and 28 new stations, and planning more system expansion projects.
The skills taught in pre-apprenticeship programs can help launch a career in many trades, including with the Cement Masons, Ironworkers, Operating Engineers, Sheet Metal Workers, Laborers, Electricians and more.
Here are some more useful links if you're interested in helping our region get back to work:
• Apprenticeship programs recognized by the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council
• ANEW - Apprenticeship and nontraditional employment
• Seattle Vocational Institute – PACT
• Ironworkers Local 86 pre-apprenticeship program