Apprenticeships Help Essex County Workers Develop Construction Careers

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Labor advocates recently gathered to put a spotlight on “one of the best opportunities for upward economic mobility and building intergenerational wealth” available to Essex County residents: a career in the construction industry.

Pathways to Apprenticeship New Jersey (P2ANJ) and Essex County Board of County Commissioners President Wayne Richardson spearheaded the Nov. 27 event, which took place at the Essex County Hall of Records in Newark.

The discussion revolved around the value of pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, which are invaluable in getting your foot in the door of the building trades industry, advocates said.

The event was held in recognition of National Apprenticeship Week, a nationwide celebration where employers, industry associations, labor organizations, community-based organizations, workforce partners, educators and government leaders host events to showcase the successes and value of registered apprenticeship.

U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) said that last year’s landmark federal $1.2 trillion infrastructure package will be fueling some important projects in New Jersey.

“The newest class of apprentices to complete job training organized by Pathways to Apprenticeship NJ will be an essential part of building the future of our state,” the congresswoman added.

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U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr. (NJ-10) said apprenticeships create opportunities for local workers to “increase their skills and create a great future.”

“I am a strong supporter of federal efforts to increase apprenticeships,” Payne asserted.

Richardson – who is also the executive director of P2ANJ – said it’s “imperative” to educate young and aspiring tradespeople about the career pathways available to them – and make sure they have the tools they need to succeed.

“A career in the building trades remains one of the best opportunities for upward economic mobility and building intergenerational wealth,” Richardson said.

New Jersey Department of Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo said apprenticeship plays a critical role in developing trained and skilled workers.

According to Asaro-Angelo, New Jersey has invested more than $50 million to grow and develop apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship and work-based learning programs during the tenure of Gov. Phil Murphy. Meanwhile, the state has seen a 100 percent increase in registered apprenticeship programs.

“The earn-while-you-learn model, born in the building trades, can be adapted to virtually any field, as we’re proving here in New Jersey,” he added.

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