TUCSON CITIZEN: Tues., July 18, 2006
SAHBA training gives vital skills to aspiring construction workers
Applications to participate in a construction trade school run by the Southern Arizona Home Builders Association are being accepted. The yearlong, tuition-free school is limited to 50 students 18 years and older who want a career in construction. Classes begin in October.
The SAHBA Institute of Construction was established in June 2005 to recruit and train employees in the residential construction industry. The school is privately funded by SAHBA members.
The program provides two teaching components: on-site fieldwork and in-class instruction.
Students work with contractors for six-week periods, learning eight trades that include plumbing, electrical, air conditioning, concrete, masonry, framing and finish carpentry. Students work 40 hours a week and are paid minimum wage, $5.15 per hour.
Students also meet twice a week in the evening for classroom instruction. The curriculum includes principles of the industry, a look at building materials, help in reading blueprints and elements of project management.
Students must be able to read and write in English, adhere to a strict attendance policy, provide proof from a doctor of physical ability to participate and agree to submit to random drug and alcohol testing.
Applications are available at SAHBA, 2840 N. Country Club Road, or by calling 795-5114. Applications are also available at www.sahba.org under Careers.