Newark Youth Build Construction Careers Through Summer Job Program

NEWARK, NJ — Veronica Rodriguez earned an OSHA certificate card and learned how to work with heavy machinery like table saws and nail guns. Micah Charles beefed up his framing and drywalling skills, gaining a new appreciation for math and science along the way. And they’re just two of many high school-aged youth who are literally building themselves a future in the carpentry industry through Newark’s popular Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), officials say.

Several city officials and local students recently gathered at the Career Technical Education Carpentry Workshop at Barringer High School to shine a spotlight on the popular program, which is open to youth aged 14 to 24.

Under the program, Newark youth are assigned to worksites that match the “careers of interest” they listed on their applications. The city partners with local businesses and organizations to provide paid jobs for the participants – who also get valuable job experience and qualifications in the process.

The program is powered by a blend of city, state and private funding. Since Mayor Ras Baraka took office, it has tripled in size, setting a goal of 3,000 participants last year, his administration noted. Read More: NJ's Largest Summer Youth Job Program To Employ 3,000 In Newark

At last week’s news conference, apprentices in the program’s carpentry track got a chance to put on their work gear and display their equipment. They also got a chance to discuss the impact that the program has had on their lives – and their dreams of finding success in the construction industry.

“I’m proud to have obtained my OSHA 10 certificate card for occupational safety at the job site,” said Rodriguez, a senior at Barringer High School.

Rodriguez said the SYEP has given her the confidence to join the Carpenter’s Union and embark on a career where women of color like her are in the minority.

“I have learned how to work with heavy machinery such as table saws, lifts, nail guns and so many other tools,” she said. “I have learned how to refurnish wood and how to frame structures. With the money I’ve earned, I was able to pay for my driving lesson, which has enabled me to progress into becoming a responsible driver.”

Meanwhile, Charles – another 12th grader at Barringer High School – said that the experience has shown him the benefits of studying math and science in the classroom.

“I am very excited for the next chapters of my life,” Charles said, noting that he’s seriously increased his skills in framing, drywall installation, CNC router operation, finish carpentry, varnishing and sign construction.

Rahaman Muhammad, Newark’s deputy mayor of job creation and workforce development, said it’s time to change the notion of what constitutes a “good job.” And it begins with learning how to work with your hands, he added.

“The skilled trades like carpentry and plumbing are not ‘Alternative Ed,’” Muhammad said. “They are first-rate career pathways that pay top notch wages that provide opportunities to build generational wealth.”

“Without our dedicated construction workers, Newark would not be able to continue to rise,” Mayor Baraka agreed.

• See Related: Future Construction Workers Ace Free Training Program In East Orange
• See Related: Teens Train For Car Repair Careers In Bloomfield Despite 'Stigma'

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