Programs |
Environmental Job Training and Development Program
Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2007
The primary objective of the Groundwork Providence Job Training program is to provide a qualified workforce to established companies who are doing business in the City of Providence and are engaged in an Environmental Service or have environmental service as a component of their mission.
This program targets individuals who live in communities impacted by environmental degradation as well as the under-employed and the unemployed. The curriculum for the training program has been designed to offer participants in-depth and comprehensive training which will provide each student with the skills to join the workforce in such industries as sustainable landscaping and green building technologies. Additional support services include job development and placement assistance, ongoing case management and referrals for basic skills training such as math and English.
Successes
- Since its origination in June 2002, the EPA funded Brownfields Job Training program has trained more than 200 inner city adults that have been either directly impacted by brownfields in their communities or those who are under-employed or unemployed in the Providence and Pawtucket communities. This training provides them with preparation and certifications to enter the environmental industry in the capacity of Hazardous Waste and Emergency Response operators, Construction Laborers, Landscapers or Nursery workers.
- Approximately 75% of the Brownfields Job Training graduates have successfully obtained employment within the environmental industry.
The existing assets in old industrial cities are being rediscovered as the needs for additional housing and the desire to curb sprawl are colliding. As we rebuild these cities, it is important that all citizens are included. Also as the streets and buildings are renovated, communities are redeveloped and the result highlights natural resources to their fullest potential.
Partnerships
Partnerships with community based literacy organizations and social service agencies have been essential to the Program's sucess. Groundwork Providence is grateful to the Rhode Island Nursery and Landscapers Association, the Mt. Hope Neighborhood Association, Dorcas Place, Urban League of RI, Federal Hill House, and the Community College of RI. These organizations are located in the neighborhoods where the adult participants reside.
Participant Requirements
Applicants should have a high school diploma or GED, but it is not required to participate in the program.
All applicants are required to attend the scheduled orientation.
All applicants are required to take a TABE test in vocabulary and comprehension and must score at a 7th grade level or above. Applicants who do not meet this requirement will be referred to CCRI's Workplace Literacy proram for evaluation, basic skills training, and GED preparation.
All applicants will be interviewed prior to acceptance into the program.
Applicants who do not meet these requirements may also be referred to social service or community based partners to particpate in their work readiness programs.
Download an application (pdf).
8 Third Street
Providence, RI 02906
phone 401.351.6440
fax 401.351.0118