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BOLD SOLUTION TO WORKFORCE NEEDS

SITUATION
The construction industry is facing a workforce crisis with a dire need for more qualified workers.  In southeast Tennessee, there has been limited and subpar training opportunities build a qualified workforce, and a lack of marketing to build awareness of the lucrative and rewarding career paths in construction.

​SOLUTION
Through AGC East Tennessee, an industry association for commercial construction, we led the initiative to build Chattanooga's first vocational school in 30 years with a focus on the building trades.  This ambitious endeavor required keen leadership to bring together industry, education, and government partners to define employment-ready curriculum and to attract $10 million in funding for the construction of the school.  Through intentional collaboration, we created a 501c3 public/private partnership organizational structure comprised of the partner organizations to give representation and balance to education and industry, resulting in one of the most innovative workforce development centers in the country. 

The school is located in one of Chattanooga's most underserved neighborhoods, offering new pathways to success for hundreds of families and students new pathways to success. 

"This is one of the most impressive facilities that I have seen across the country.”
​- Steve Sandherr, CEO of Associated General Contractors of America

RESULTS
  • After three years of planning and construction, the new Construction Career Center officially opened on October 28,  2022 An 11th and 12th grade vocational training program in partnership with Hamilton County Schools with space for 160 students each year in Phase 1
  • An certified adult learning program in partnership with Chattanooga State Community College and Tennessee College of Applied Technology
  • Continuing education training through AGC East Tennessee for professionals in construction
  • A career and industry center led by AGC East Tennessee to provide placement services for all graduating students, with a metric for success of 100% placement of all graduating students
  • New pathways for success for students in underserved communities into a career where the national average salary is $35 / hour