Project JumpStart, Inc. (PJSI) is proud to offer this course to support individuals in the Baltimore City region who are pursuing a career with BGE or within the electrical industry.
A Powerful Career Door Opener:
We know BG&E requires a CAST (Construction and Skilled Trades) Certificate for employment on their team and other electrical and mechanical organizations recognize the credential.
What is the CAST Test?
The CAST test typically consists of four timed sections:
1. Graphic Arithmetic
- Tests your ability to solve basic arithmetic problems using diagrams or drawings (e.g., blueprints or schematics).
- Example: Calculating dimensions or quantities based on a diagram.
2. Mechanical Concepts
- Assesses your understanding of basic mechanical principles (e.g., gears, pulleys, levers, gravity).
- Example: Which pulley system will lift a load with less force?
3. Reading for Comprehension
- Measures your ability to understand and interpret technical written materials.
- Example: Reading a passage about safety procedures and answering related questions.
4. Mathematical Usage
- Tests ability to work with basic math concepts quickly (e.g., fractions, decimals, percentages, unit conversions).
- Example: Converting inches to feet or solving equations.
Who Should Apply?
If you have strong reading comprehension and math skills, you are ready for this program and a strong future in the electric industry.
What does it cost?
FREE — plus you’ll receive a $25 stipend per class upon successful course completion.
This course consists of eight (2-hour) sessions designed to prepare you for the CAST certification exam by reviewing its four key modules:
Course Modules
Module 1: Program Overview and CAST Introduction
Objective: Gain an understanding of the CAST test structure, purpose, and the goals of the training program.
Module 2: Core Competencies and Preparation Strategies
Objective: Learn about the key aptitudes assessed—Reading for Comprehension, Mechanical Concepts, Graphic Arithmetic, and Mathematical Usage—as well as test prep strategies and mental readiness techniques.
Module 3: Hands-On Training with CAST Resources
Objective: Familiarize yourself with the program’s resources, including lesson plans, slides, student materials, and practice exercises.
Module 4: Practice Exercises and Post-Test Preparation
Objective: Complete timed practice exercises, review your results, and develop personalized strategies for test success.
What’s the process?
Complete an application
If selected, attend an Assessment Session and complete the assessment tests.
Qualifying students will be selected to fill two 15-student classes this year – 8 weeknights starting in June and 8 weekends starting in September.
Follow the rules of the class and receive a certificate of completion.
Take the official CAST Exam at the PJSI location.
You will be notified of your score.
When are the classes?
Cohort Options (2025)
- Evening Cohort: Tuesdays & Thursdays, June 3 – June 26 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Weekend Cohort: Saturdays, October 4 – November 22 | 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Where are the Classes?
📍 Location: PJSI Training Space - 2101 E. Biddle St., Suite 2103, Baltimore, MD 21213
How To apply:
Please complete ALL of the fields in the application form below. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation message. A representative from PJSI will follow up within a few business days to discuss next steps.
Qualified applicants will be invited to participate in a skills assessment session, which includes math and reading comprehension. From those who complete the assessment, a maximum of 15 participants will be selected for each cohort. Additional cohorts may be scheduled in the future based on demand and funding.