With Labor Day approaching, we're taking a moment to recognize and thank the dedicated and diverse workforce that is building the largest transit system expansion in the nation.
It’s important that the tradespeople on Sound Transit projects reflect the diversity of our region. That’s why our programs and initiatives go beyond requirements to ensure real representation of women and people of color in our workforce.
To date, a total of 23,361 workers have worked over 14.5 million hours on Sound Transit’s 18 active construction projects.
Of particular importance, 6,938 workers of color worked more than 4.6 million hours on the active projects, accounting for 31.7% of all hours worked. A total of 1,526 women worked more than 7% of all hours, more than doubling the national average for participation by women.
The average prevailing wage in King County for crafts used to build the light rail system is $67.41 in wages and benefits - including medical, dental and vision insurance for workers and their families, as well as retirement plans.
If you are interested in a career in construction, please download the Construction Apprenticeship Guidebook, produced by the City of Seattle in partnership with Sound Transit.
Getting a fast track on a new career
Sound Transit is preparing for the future by training the next generation through a range of programs and initiatives.
Pre-apprenticeship programs provide hands-on training that help prepare people for entry and success in the building trades. These programs provide construction training and education, in addition to helping with driver’s licensing, transportation, child care, and budgeting.
Through Sound Transit’s Preferred Entry Program, qualified pre-apprentices can move directly into construction jobs. The program focuses on apprentice opportunities for people of color, women and other underrepresented populations in the construction trades.
At 20 percent, Sound Transit’s apprenticeship goal is the highest in the region. It takes about four years for apprentices to become experienced journey-level workers.
More stories on pre-apprenticeship programs
Be part of rebuilding our region's economy
Women power progress on Sound Transit job sites
Sound Transit helping power the regional construction workforce
Working to extend light rail north, south, east and west
Three new light rail stations in the U District, Roosevelt and Northgate neighborhoods open on Oct. 2, 2021!
Workers put more than 5.2 million hours into building this extension.
This year's excitement will be followed in 2022 by opening the Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension and in 2023 by the opening of service to Mercer Island, Bellevue and Redmond’s Overlake area.
Extensions to Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, Kent/Des Moines, Federal Way and downtown Redmond are on track to open in 2024.