On-the-Job Training to Build Skills for Permanent Employment

Governor Jim Doyle and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett announced this week a $1 million project that will provide on-the-job training for at least 80 unemployed individuals in Milwaukee to help prepare them for permanent jobs in the building trades while improving city property in inner city neighborhoods.

The Milwaukee Builds demonstration project is a partnership between the state and the City of Milwaukee, with the state and city both providing $500,000 to fund the project. Individuals will work in transitional jobs, earning $8 to $12 an hour, as they learn skills and gain experience in carpentry, painting, and building maintenance.

“With the Milwaukee Builds project, we are providing a fresh start for inner city residents who are unemployed,” Governor Doyle said. “The skills they learn can lead to a construction job or other opportunities in the building trades. At the same time, the transitional work they are doing will benefit the city and its neighborhoods. I would like to thank Representative Annette Polly Williams for her leadership on advocating for this important funding. I am pleased to join Mayor Barrett in this effort.”

Individuals will work in transitional jobs for up to 30 hours a week from four weeks to a year, depending on their progress and ability to secure a permanent job. Most of the training will be on the job. The demonstration project will include some classroom instruction, covering safety and tool use and maintenance. They will also receive employment services, including assistance in developing and updating their resumes and tips on searching for work.

“With this program, we are assisting dozens of Milwaukee residents who will set their lives on the path of productive employment,” Mayor Barrett said. “We know an established workforce with solid skills benefits everyone. With this effort, we are building an even stronger community.”

The Milwaukee Builds Partnership includes the Milwaukee Area Workforce Investment Board, the City of Milwaukee Housing Authority , and the Community Development Grants Association. Also involved are Esperanza Unida, Milwaukee Christian Center, Milwaukee Community Service Corps, Northcott Neighborhood House, Milwaukee Area Technical College , Wisconsin Regional Training Program/BigStep, New Hope Project and Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin.

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Popular Interests In This Article: Annette Polly Williams, Jim Doyle, Job Creation, Milwaukee Builds, Tom Barrett