What is Project JumpStart?
Project JumpStart is an 87-hour pre-apprenticeship construction training program, focusing on preparing participants for employment in well-paying jobs in construction trades such as electrical, plumbing, carpentry and related careers. We provide training and assist graduates in finding employment in the construction industry through the program’s Job Placement Director.
How many participants does Project JumpStart serve?
Currently, Project JumpStart holds six classes a year in two locations serving approximately 125 Baltimore City residents every year.
How are classes structured?
JumpStart classes meet two nights a week for three hours each night. Experienced instructors provide remedial math and measurement education (as we’ve seen a consistent need for additional numeracy support from our internal assessments) and entry-level electrical, plumbing, and carpentry vocational training. During training, participants also receive certifications in CPR, First Aid, and OSHA 10 (a requirement for many industry employers and apprenticeships).
What additional services, outside of industry-skills training, are offered to program participants?
The Project JumpStart program provides case management, referral, and support services. These services are individualized based on the participant’s needs and may include:
- connections to driver’s education at no cost to the participant (as the high cost of driver’s education has created a barrier for many residents to reliable transportation)
- case management services to pinpoint barriers to employment (i.e.driver’s education course, transportation assistance, etc.) and make appropriate referrals.
- Referrals to housing, benefits screening, legal services; support and assistance to navigate systems such as child support, Motor Vehicle Administration, and other social support agencies if needed
- Financial education and coaching
- A high-quality set of starter tools for graduates entering employment due to the industry requirement for trade tools starting day one on most job sites
Who does Project JumpStart serve?
The program is designed to work with Baltimore City residents over age 18 who have a high school diploma or GED. All interested residents first complete an intake application and career assessment that includes a math assessment. The intake helps staff determine if the applicant is a good fit for the program and a career in the construction industry. If selected for an interview all applicants must attend the interview, on-time, and pass a drug-screen urinalysis to be considered for enrollment.
What is the cost of training for the participants?
There is NO cost for the participants to attend. Participants will receive a stipend based on time attendance to classes and other factors.
What is the program completion rate? How many graduates get jobs?
Approximately 80% of those who enroll complete the program. Between 75% and 80% of graduates are placed into employment.
How much do graduates typically earn when they gain employment?
Wages vary based on several factors such as trade preference, prior construction experience, etc. The construction industry will allow for individual to earn family supporting livable
wages.
How is the program funded?
Project JumpStart, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization operating on a mix of state and local government funding, philanthropic foundations funding, and private donations.
How long does it typically take for a program graduate to gain employment after they complete?
Placement typically happens within 90 days of completing Project JumpStart but employment is not guaranteed based on several factors. Some high performing students have been placed in employment opportunities and started their construction careers before they graduate from the program.
