Rhode Island

Over three years, the Woonsocket Employment Network will design and implement a regional workforce development system that: responds to the unmet workforce needs of employers; engages through training and supportive services the untapped potential of low-income, low-skilled job seekers; and promotes economic self-sufficiency through education and training opportunities for new and incumbent workers.

Building Futures offers low-income and under-employed residents of Providence opportunities to enter the construction trades through apprenticeships. Building Futures enrolled and placed its first cohort of participants in June 2007; the first year’s goal is to place 30 apprentices.

Stepping Up, a career ladder program, will provide training, education, coaching, and career support services for incumbent workers at Rhode Island Hospital and Women and Infants Hospital and for Providence low-income residents.

Stepping Up is a partnership among two hospitals, labor, and community organizations.

It goals are to:

The Marine Trades Partnership recruits and trains low-income residents of the Acquidneck Island, RI, area in skills of boat maintenance and trades associated with boat building and restoration, including woodworking, mechanical systems, engines, and electrical systems. These skills are needed by numerous boat-building companies, boatyards, marinas, and companies that maintain and restore various kinds of pleasure boats.