Workforce Development

Our team will review your qualifications and help you prepare to apply for an apprenticeship program in the construction trades.

We guide qualified applicants toward gateway jobs and specialized training that build readiness for apprenticeship programs in the construction trades.

• Gateway jobs may include temporary services, material handling positions, or volunteer opportunities.
• Specialized training can include First Aid/CPR, HazMat, CDL, and OSHA 10 certifications.
• Many apprenticeship programs offer these courses as part of their training.

We provide training in life skills and job-readiness essentials to help you succeed—especially during your first year in the trades.

Start by contacting our Case Managers to schedule a preliminary interview, so we can determine how best to assist you. (See contact information below.)

If you’ve been accepted into an apprenticeship program and need support to accept your first job as a registered apprentice, we may assist with:

• Child Care Financial Assistance: Registered apprentices can apply for childcare support throughout their apprenticeship training. You may apply for support based on need. Payments will be made directly to the provider while you are working as an apprentice or attending required training. Providers must be either state-licensed/registered or listed on the Oregon (or Washington) registry maintained by the Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care Subsidy Program. Payment amounts will be calculated based on household gross income and size.
• Basic Tools, Boots, Raingear, PPE, and/or Uniforms: If you are being dispatched or are currently an apprentice working within your first year, you may apply for assistance to purchase required basic tools, boots, and/or PPE that are not provided by your apprenticeship program or employer.
• Travel Assistance with Lodging, Mileage, and Food Allowance: If you travel more than 60 miles to a job site for work or to apprenticeship training, you may apply for fuel assistance at 50% of the current federal rate. If you incur overnight expenses, you may apply for lodging and meal allowance assistance if not receiving it from your employer or apprenticeship program. (Meal allowance is only paid when staying in a commercial facility.)

• One-on-one career counseling and/or budget workshop training
• Support, advocacy, and mentoring for work-related concerns
• Referrals to other services (e.g., social services, hardship assistance, continuing education)

Ready to take the first step toward a rewarding career in construction?
Join the Akana Workforce Development Program and start building your future, one skill at a time.

Penny Painter
503-205-4769
penny.painter@akana.us