City of Newark Council Member Anibal Ramos (left), EAS Carpenters Union Council Representative and contributing program facilitator of 3-1-1 Tom Wyzga (middle, left), NJ Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz (middle, left), City of Newark Councilwoman At-Large, Louise Scott-Rountree (middle, right), Newark Council President, LaMonica McIver (right) pose with program graduates.

Newark, NJ, August 12, 2024 – On Friday, August 9, 2024, the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EAS Carpenters Union) proudly celebrated 20 graduates from the Barringer High School 3-1-1 and the Newark Workforce Development Boards’ Summer Carpentry Program. The program provides Newark residents and high school students ages 18-24 with 40 hours of hands-on construction training, in addition to 40 hours of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training. Participants earn three college credits, a Level 1 Career Connections certificate, and OSHA 30 certification, all of which are crucial credentials for a career in carpentry.

“We’re excited to see these motivated individuals step into the workforce and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities,” said Anthony Abrantes, Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer, EAS Carpenters Union. “Their success is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the value of hands-on training.”

“On-the-job exposure lets individuals see if this is the career path they want to pursue. The union provides life-changing opportunities and a direct pathway for Newark residents to apprenticeship programs,” said Tomasz Wyzga, EAS Carpenters Union Council Representative. For those who excel in the 3-1-1 program, it’s an exceptional chance to build projects in the greater Newark area and set the foundation for a successful career.”

This program, a collaboration between the EAS Carpenters Union, the Newark Workforce Development Board, union construction contractors, and Maplewoodshop, provided participants with the essential skills and credentials to pursue promising opportunities with union contractors and local businesses.

Jill Schiff, Chief Operating Officer of the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ), echoed this sentiment: “These graduates have gained not just skills, but also the confidence and work ethic needed to succeed in our industry. Programs like this are essential for developing the next generation of construction professionals.”

Cyndie Williams, Executive Director of the Carpenter Contractor Trust (CCT), highlighted the program’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. “We are committed to opening doors for anyone with a strong work ethic and willingness to learn,” she said. “This program has provided an invaluable opportunity for young people from all backgrounds to enter a rewarding career with great potential.”

“With wider support and exposure about this program, we are confident that we have broadened the career choices for our youth throughout the state,” said Karen Gaylord, Executive Director, Newark Workforce Development Board. “Union support and training gives these students a career lifeline in construction they might not have known existed previously.”