Green Training Program Finding Jobs for DC Residents

WASHINGTON (WUSA) -- The District has one of the highest jobless rates in the country, surging to 11.1% last month. But some local organizations are trying to turn that trend around and do something good for the environment at the same time.

Since the Great Depression, Goodwill of Greater Washington has been training unemployed workers and getting them jobs. The mission during this Great Recession is the same with a new class that's pure 21st century: a training program for Green-Collar construction jobs.

Paul Thomas is a project manger for Goodwill. He describes the class he teaches as "a 10-week boot camp." The training program is called Green Pathway DC, a partnership between Goodwill and the Green Builders Council of DC. It's funded by up to $900,000 in Federal stimulus money. The first class just graduated from the course that teaches the nuts and bolts of green construction and softer skills such as how to write a resume and tips for interviews.

Students come with different goals. Gentry Gaines hopes some day to work for the EPA. Calvin Steadman says he comes from an HVAC background of 20 years and wants to apply his new green skills to future business opportunities.

After training ends, jobs fairs help students find employment. The education program has a job placement rate over 70%. Sam Brooks from the Green Builders Council of DC predicts "the green economy is going to flourish here in the District of Columbia and we hope our students are in the front line to build green buildings, install smart meters and make sure homes are more energy efficient."

The Green construction training program is free for students. Graduates are also given vouchers for Goodwill stores so that they can pick up interview and work clothes for their new lives.