Good News: Rebuild Philadelphia's Finishing Trades Training Looks Promising with 60+ Youth

Finishing Trades AcademyPhoto byRebuild Philadelphia

On April 4, 2024, I learned about Rebuild Philadelphia's paid training and partnership with DC 21’s Finishing Trades Union when I attended their last mandatory Zoom session with over 60 participants. I’m happy to report that most of the attendees were young people.

We learned about Rebuilds Philadelphia's 4-week paid finishing trades training program at the one-hour mandatory orientation. The session ran like a well-oiled machine as Tiffany Smith, Kerriann Madden, and Shaun Guest shared essential details about the program’s expectations, requirements, timelines, and the final selection process. If you're wondering where the "sugar tax money" went, well this is one of many great programs in addition to the many park renovation project across the city.

I’m not sure how many people attended the 1^st session, but the 2^nd session seemed like a success with over 60 engaged candidates. If they offer this program again, I’d strongly recommend you apply if:

- You’re 18+ and a resident of Philadelphia County
- Have a valid ID and proof of residence
- Can pass a drug test and Wonderlic Test
- Can commit to and attend the 4-week training and cannot miss a day

I attended the orientation as a workforce development professional, but this presentation gave me hope as a mother of a young adult, a former educator, and an adopted Philadelphian.

Good luck to all the candidates, staff, and facilitators. I hope you have a successful cohort!

Shout out to yesterday’s presenters and participants, Rebuild PHL and DC 21 Finishing Trades Union for this great training and career opportunity.