Constructing a Brighter Future for Atlanta’s Youth
GABTA YOUTHBUILD
Career Awareness & Promotion
Skilled Trades
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Georgia Building Trades Academy (GABTA) YouthBuild program aims to build more than the next generation of tradesmen by preparing 16-24 year-old youth to enter a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) in the US construction industry. During their nine-month pre-apprenticeship program, inner-city youth explore skilled trade careers and receive hands-on construction training from industry professionals while exploring the barriers holding them back from reaching their highest potential.
A dedicated case manager solves immediate needs while instructors focus on soft skills training and leadership development. Finally, a job developer works to assist youth in selecting the best, skilled trade for them.
PROGRAM IMPACT
- Trainees earn the industry-recognized Multi-Craft Core Curriculum Certification (MC3), which grants direct entry into a registered apprenticeship removing the entrance exam requirement.
- Participants earn an average of $30 per hour upon completion of the four- year RAP program.
INNOVATION
Wheels4Work and Ensure the Ride programs provide two participants a vehicle and insurance to ensure their ability to get to and from work.
PARTNERS
- APS Adult Education
- IBEW613
- Local 926
- SUGGA’s
- Michael Render, aka “Killer Mike”
LESSONS LEARNED
Listen to the workforce and what it needs, and then talk honestly with participants about which careers are in the highest demand and have the most significant potential to change their economic circumstances quickly.
“The YouthBuild program gives youth the ability to not only change their own lives but to create generational change for their families and communities.”
– KRISTY SMITH, YouthBuild Program Director
When Workforce Works is an opportunity to tell and highlight successful workforce programs, projects, and initiatives from the MAIP Partner network. These aren’t just any stories about workforce programs, but stories of programs that really get it right – putting industry first, engaging career seekers, and developing deep partnerships – the workforce “secret sauce”.