A hiring & resource event for the Building Trades Sector is scheduled for Wednesday, September 5th at Joplin Memorial Hall.  The event will coincide with completion of the work experience portion of the most recent building trades pre-apprenticeship training offered by the Job Centers in Joplin, Monett, and Neosho.  Students of the training will have recently completed a short-term work experience program with Catholic Charities, gaining valuable experience before being connected with other hiring employers and related resources in the industry.

The event will be open to the public from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, with business team staff on hand to explain other available services and programs.  Employers wishing to reserve a table can register for free HERE.  Hurry – space is limited!!!

Download the flyer here.

On June 27th at the new Joplin Advanced Training and Technology Center, Crowder College formalized a partnership with Bill’s Electric on development of a full time, four-year electrician apprenticeship set to begin in August.

With more and more experienced workers retiring, the need for fresh talent is apparent – apprenticeships like these are one way businesses can engage with education, economic, and workforce development stakeholders to develop a pipeline of emerging workers equipped with the skills and abilities required by our region’s employers.

The development of this program adds to the area’s list of such opportunities, as Crowder College already has an ongoing construction apprenticeship with Branco Enterprises established in 2015.  Shorter term pre-apprenticeship programs help to prepare participants to meet the basic qualifications for entry into registered apprenticeships or other employment opportunities, and are available to eligible jobseekers through the Workforce Innovation Board of Southwest Missouri and the local Job Centers in Joplin, Monett, and Neosho.

• Joplin Globe Article on Crowder College / BEI Apprenticeship
• Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Recap

The Missouri Job Centers at Joplin, Monett, and Neosho are pleased to announce a new fast-track training program designed to equip job seekers to enter the electrical and construction sectors. Offered in partnership with Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri, the Carpenters Union, and IBEW, the program includes four weeks of training followed by paid work experience opportunities.

The Skilled Trade Pre-Apprenticeship begins February 13th. Those interested are invited to a trainee information meeting on Monday, February 6th at the Joplin Job Center. The first session is offered at Noon with a repeat at 6:00 p.m. For questions or more information, call the Job Center at 417-625-3618. Download this single-page, printer-friendly flyer with additional info. 

Training Covered

The first week of training covers soft skill expectations of employers, resume preparation, and the National Career Readiness Certificate. Week two digs into construction with worksite safety and basic construction skills. Electrical training happens in week three with electrical safety and basic electrical work. The final (fourth) week covers safety and medical training such as OSHA-10, first aid, CPR, and forklift operation. Weeks five and beyond (up to 12 weeks total) features the paid internship for participants to put their skills to work.

More on Pre-Apprenticeship

Quality pre-apprenticeship programs contribute to the development of a diverse and skilled workforce by preparing participants to meet the basic qualifications for entry into one or more Registered Apprenticeship programs. Through a variety of unique designs and approaches, pre-apprenticeship programs can be adapted to meet the needs of differing populations being trained, the various employers and sponsors they serve, and specific opportunities within the local labor market.

Pre-apprenticeship training is a great way for participants to explore and learn about exciting careers; qualify to meet the minimum standards for selection to employment and training programs to help advance; benefit from classroom and technology-based training; get a start on career-specific training with viable career pathway opportunities; build literacy, math, English, and work-readiness skills employers desire.