As the construction industry faces an aging, highly experienced population nearing retirement, the need for new workers remains acute in Ohio and across the country. This loss of talent is daunting for contractors and unions alike, as they struggle to fill the gaps with competent workers ready to step into greater responsibility.

Luckily, Gen Z and subsequent generations have a strong interest in the trades, influenced in part by rising college costs and by AI, which has begun to threaten careers in white-collar positions. But as this generation seeks trade opportunities, some are finding it difficult to get a foot in the door.

Like most industries, apprenticeships favor those with experience and knowledge. This is not unusual, as apprenticeships are a significant investment in an individual, and companies and unions like to see evidence that an individual can excel and integrate into their role in the industry. Unfortunately, for a new grad or someone seeking a career change, this challenge may force them into non-union roles and underemployment, where they lose hours and years of compounding benefits.

In a competitive job market, Pre-Apprenticeship Programs, career centers, and youth trades programs help young workers address gaps in their resumes and knowledge. These programs build a basic understanding of industry, offering training, certifications, and confidence.

To help fill this gap, LIUNA Training has developed a high school trades training program, the LIUNA LEARN Program, designed to be integrated into a high school curriculum to teach the basic skills of a construction craft Laborer. The program offers applied academic, work, and life skills that provide a solid foundation for entering a U.S. Department of Labor-recognized apprenticeship program and for a successful career as a Construction Craft Laborer.

The LIUNA LEARN Program has been successfully implemented in Ohio at Akron Public Schools’ Buchtel CLC. The program has been a triumph for the school district, the Local Union, local contractors, and students, as graduates have already begun working as laborer apprentices.

Plans are underway to continue expanding the LEARN Program to other high schools and career centers in Ohio. To learn more about the program, visit https://www.thelearnprogram.com.