Workforce Development

We work with area government and private organizations to help people with low incomes enter jobs in growing industries with family-sustaining wages, benefits, and career-advancement potential.

Building Futures Pre-Apprenticeship Program

Operating since 2007, our Building Futures Pre-Apprenticeship Program provides occupational training, job readiness, industry recognized certifications, hands-on experiences, and job placement assistance for job and apprenticeship program placement in the construction industry.

We partner with 16 union apprenticeship programs in the DC metro area, as well as with area contractors and community based-organizations. By completing these programs, participants earn nationally recognized credentials and licenses.

Eligibility


Eligibility is dependent on requirements of those funding the program, but generally Building Futures is open to low-income area individuals. Applicants must be interested in a career in the building and construction industry, have a high school diploma or GED, have a valid drivers’ license or learners’ permit, be healthy to do physical labor, able to lift up to 40 pounds and be drug-free (including cannabis).

Curriculum


The curriculum, based on the North America's Building Trades Unions Multi-Craft Core Curriculum, combines hands-on construction skills training, with construction math, blueprint reading, safety certifications, workers' rights and responsibilities on the job, construction career exploration and case management, job readiness, and job search assistance.

Participant Voices

What graduates and hiring managers say about the Community Services Agency’s pre-apprenticeship programs.

  • “I was once just a number. Now I am a new man with new opportunities and a chance to build something with my life.”

    CSA Building Futures graduate and returning citizen

  • "We feel like brothers after all these years. And we have challenged each other to be the best we can be.”

    CSA Building Futures graduate and IBEW Local 26 apprentice

  • “The Contractor excelled in every facet of the program. Given what we know today about Contractor’s ability to execute what they promised in their proposal, we would definitely award to them today if we had the choice"

    General Services Administration manager

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