One Acadiana receives grant to pilot workforce training program for incarcerated individuals

One Acadiana revealed that they have received a $5,000 grant to initiate a workforce training program within a nearby detention center.

In collaboration with the Master’s Guild Association, 1A’s program emerged from involvement in two cohorts via the Foundation for Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives : Economic Mobility for Workers in Rural Areas Group and Equitable Credential Attainment Cohort .

1A received this extra EMRW grant to back a significant partner who is facilitating access to rewarding careers in construction and various skilled trades.

The pilot program will support a single cohort consisting of 10 to 15 individuals who will participate in a 10-hour "Introduction to Construction" course created by MGA, which is an alliance of nearby home builders, as stated by 1A.

This program provides an accessible, budget-friendly, and minimal-risk method for companies to reach individuals who are getting ready to return to work. It aims to familiarize participants with basic construction competencies such as measuring techniques, handling tools, interpreting blueprints, and understanding sector-specific terminology. Additionally, the curriculum features guidance on job readiness alongside concluding sessions where attendees can interact directly with nearby building professionals through a contractor roundtable.

Via MGAworks, the Guild's placement agency, graduates can secure jobs immediately upon their eligibility post-graduation. This arrangement helps employers cut down on the expenses and duration related to initial training phases. The structure of MGA’s system aims to equip people with the confidence needed for starting entry-level positions, thereby decreasing employee turnover and enhancing preparedness right from the beginning.

Maintaining a skilled and well-educated workforce is essential for Acadiana’s economic growth," stated Troy Wayman, President and CEO of One Acadiana. "This collaboration aligns with this objective. ConnectEd , One Acadiana’s approach to workforce and education aims to bridge the gap between learning, skill development, and employment opportunities, ensuring greater accessibility for higher-paying jobs within the area. They anticipate collaborating with industry experts and local leadership to foster a robust and adaptable workforce.

As construction needs keep increasing throughout all nine parishes of Acadiana, this trial aims to demonstrate how work-readiness training can be extended into underutilized talent sources.

If successful, this model could then be extended throughout the area, building upon current collaborations with regional law enforcement and correctional partners.

Kerry Duet from MGAWorks stated, "The Guild is dedicated to assisting motivated people in pursuing design-build careers regardless of where they stand in their journeys." She added, "We’re attempting an innovative approach by collaborating with professionals returning to the workforce, and frankly, we believe there’s immense untapped potential. This pilot project represents a crucial move towards strengthening Acadiana."

The article was initially published in the Lafayette Daily Advertiser. One Acadiana has been awarded a grant to launch a workforce training initiative aimed at inmates.