ROCKLAND POST DESK
Haverstraw — A new training initiative launching this spring in Rockland County aims to introduce young adults to careers in the building trades while helping address the growing demand for skilled workers in the region.
The program, organized by the nonprofit BuildnBeyond, will begin in April and will provide pre-apprenticeship training designed to prepare participants for entry into union apprenticeship programs.
Organizers say the initiative focuses on young adults from under-represented communities who may not otherwise have access to trade training or connections within the construction industry. Participants will receive hands-on exposure to several trades and learn basic construction skills that can help them move toward careers in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing and other building trades.
Another key feature of the program is that it is free for those accepted, removing a financial barrier that can prevent some young people from pursuing training in the skilled trades.
The effort also reflects Rockland County’s long connection to the building trades. Communities along the Hudson River, including Haverstraw, were once known for a thriving brick industry that supplied building materials for projects throughout New York City and the region. For generations, union carpenters, electricians, plumbers and laborers from Rockland helped build homes, schools and infrastructure across the county.
Today, the local economy continues to rely on skilled trades workers. Contractors and union leaders say demand is increasing as development projects continue in Rockland and neighboring counties, while many experienced tradespeople are nearing retirement. Programs like this are seen as one way to help strengthen the local workforce and keep important construction and infrastructure projects moving forward.
Supporters also say the program represents an investment in the future. While college remains the right choice for some young people, others are looking for career paths that allow them to earn good wages, receive benefits and build long-term careers without taking on large student loans.
Organizers say the pre-apprenticeship training will allow participants to explore different trades and better understand union apprenticeship programs before committing to a specific field.
Some workforce advocates also note that even as technology such as artificial intelligence continues to reshape parts of the economy, many skilled trades jobs still require hands-on work that cannot easily be replaced by automation. Because of that, careers in construction and related trades are expected to remain important and stable sources of employment in the years ahead.
If successful, supporters say the initiative could become an important step in expanding workforce development opportunities in Rockland County while helping more young residents consider careers in the skilled trades.
Training is expected to begin in April, and organizers are encouraging interested applicants to apply soon as space may be limited.