About Project JumpStart
The PJSI Difference
Baltimore’s Original Pre-apprenticeship Construction Workforce Development Training Program
Project JumpStart, Inc. (PJSI) is a 15-week job readiness construction-training program for Baltimore City residents with a high school diploma or GED. For 2 decades, experienced teachers have helped students understand job readiness and prepare for success on the construction site with an overview and focus on entry-level electrical, plumbing, and carpentry trades. Students also receive essential safety training, construction math, financial coaching, a stipend and driver’s education. More than 75% of our graduates are placed in traditional and specialty trades as well as technician jobs, with many leading to solid careers and apprenticeship opportunities in construction and adjacent industries. Project JumpStart also serves contractors by referring only well-screened, job-ready candidates to meet their entry-level hiring needs. Project JumpStart began in 2006 and today continues to enhance programming and access to meet the needs of the community and the industry.
Employer Centric Curriculum
Community Partner Model
PJSI know training and understands the needs of the employer but our students deserve support to remove barriers of success. We partner with trusted community organizations to work directly with our students in their neighborhoods to address challenges and provide support while starting their career path journey.
The Original
Project JumpStart Training held its first class in 2006 and for almost 20 years has worked with employers to develop a workforce pipeline of vetted, entry level, team members who often go on to become leaders and productive contributors to their organizations.
Professional Instructors
PJSI knows it takes more than being a good craftsman to be a great teacher. PJSI hires professional instructors with not only experience working in the trades but also teaching.
Our Annual Report
Project JumpStart, Inc is proud our continual evolution as a program and now an entity. 2024 was a pivotal year for setting a foundation of systems, process, and strategy upon which to build in coming years.
Our History - Timeline
In 2006, Associated Builders and Contractors of Baltimore launched Project JumpStart as a pre-apprenticeship program, providing entry-level opportunities for Baltimore City residents seeking career pathways.
In 2022, Project JumpStart, Inc. (PJSI) became an independent 501(c)(3) organization, now managing the Project JumpStart program autonomously. While we are proud of our past, present and future partnership with ABC Baltimore, our independence allows us to expand our services, reaching more individuals and employers as we continue to grow and evolve.
Recognizing the need to broaden our reach in Baltimore, PJSI expanded its footprint by partnering with more community organizations that serve diverse neighborhoods across the city. We are proud to collaborate with some of the region’s best service organizations to provide comprehensive support to our students and graduates throughout Baltimore.
