Thursday, May 14, 2009

CDOT TRAINING PROGRAM HELPS JOB SEEKERS GET BACK TO WORK


 
ADAMS COUNTYToday, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced the addition of two new training providers to its On-the-Job Training (OJT) program, which will expand opportunities for people looking for jobs in the construction industry.  The Matthews Center out of Denver and Action Staffing Solutions from Loveland will join Aims Community College in Greeley to help train and place people in highway construction jobs.
"In a time when the economy is tough, the On-the-Job Training program can give someone the boost they need to get back on their feet." said Celina Benavidez, CDOT Director of Human Resources and Administration. "The six-week training program, free of charge, allows trainees to gain the skills and knowledge needed to find a highway construction job and will assist with the placement of eligible recruits into entry level positions."
            The On-the Job Training program, started in 2000, trains students in six different areas in order to prepare them for entry level jobs.  The training modules include:
o       Construction basics- Hand and power tools, basic calculations and basic rigging
o       Construction site safety- CPR, first aid, OSHA certification
o       Life skills- Workplace ethics, employment expectations, job applications and resumes
o       Commercial Driver's License Training- Learn skills to pass CDL test and obtain license
o       Highway Flagging Training and Certification- Will become a certified highway flagger
o       Heavy Equipment and Training- Learn to operate a backhoe, dozer, scraper or loader
            "When I started the training program, I was in a similar position that many Coloradoans are currently in and I wanted to eventually find a job with CDOT," said Maurice Carter, former OJT trainee and current CDOT employee.  "The skills that I learned through this program greatly prepared me for a job in highway construction and shortly following the completion of the training I was able to get a maintenance position at CDOT and get back on my feet."       
            All training providers will recruit potential entry level highway construction workers from the traditionally underutilized female and minority workforce.  The providers will train and place eligible recruits into CDOT On-the-Job training slots or other entry level highway construction positions.  The providers will monitor and support trainees after placement for 60 days to increase job retention.  While the program is targeted to underutilized women and minorities, it is open to all applicants regardless of ethnicity or gender.
            For more information on becoming a trainee, contact CDOT's Center for Equal Opportunity at 303-757-9303 or contact one of the training providers directly:  Matthews Center, 303-295-0376; Action Staffing Solution, 970-667-4202; and Aim Community College, 970-339-6294.
            The On-the-Job training program is funded by the Federal Highway Administration through a competitive grant process.  CDOT has received $1 million over the last two years and has requested another $700,000 this year.