Building a Strong Foundation: Orientation Week at Hope Builders

Last week, 24 young adults attended orientation for Hope Builders’ newest Construction Training Program cohort.

Orientation marks the end of the Applicant Stage of Hope Builders’ Student Journey, pictured above. During this one-week introduction to Hope Builders, prospective trainees meet with staff, including their training supervisor, support specialist and employment readiness coordinator, to more deeply explore and renew their commitment to fulfilling the expectations of program participation. They receive laptops, uniforms, textbooks and other materials to ensure they have what they need to succeed in the program. 

Applicants are assessed throughout orientation and must demonstrate that they are motivated and ready to start their careers. They are expected to arrive on time, actively participate and complete all required assignments. For those who have been out of school for an extended period, this week also serves as an opportunity to adjust to the learning environment and address any unforeseen barriers to training, including childcare or transportation.

At the end of the week, prospective trainees are asked to sign a pledge committing to Hope Builders’ attendance and professional standards, ultimately advancing in eight workforce readiness skill areas: accountability, initiative, productivity, grit, attendance, hard skills training, soft skills for success and reliable transportation.

Trainees who sign this pledge advance to the Trainee Stage of the Student Journey, and will spend the next 12 weeks preparing for a career in the building trades. They will be assessed weekly for workforce readiness, ensuring they are prepared to meet the needs of employers by the time they complete training.

Please join us in welcoming the newest construction training cohort to Hope Builders. We look forward to updating you on their progress in the coming months.