ORLANDO, Fla. — A free job training program in Orlando is helping people of all ages learn skilled trades while preparing them for careers in construction and utility work.
The OUC Pre-Apprenticeship Program gives students hands-on experience in areas like construction math, workplace safety and power tool training. The program is sponsored by Orlando Utilities Commission and operated through iBuild Central Florida.
For 17-year-old Joshua Coupette, the program is already helping shape his future plans before graduating from Evans High School.
“I wanted to be a part of this program because I see the benefits and like how you could branch out to this program just a little bit,” Coupette said. “Just becoming an entrepreneur and just helping other people out.”
Coupette said he hopes to become an electrician after high school and eventually own his own business.
The Evans High School senior said the program has helped him better understand what a future in the trades could look like.
“Before I started this program, I did not see myself getting into the trade works. I never thought I would be outside working and making money,” Coupette said.
According to OUC, the program includes 420 hours of hands-on instruction spread across twice-weekly classes. Students also work toward earning their NCCER Core Construction certification.
Instructor Paul Allen said students are learning foundational skills used across the construction industry.
“They’re learning the core elements of the construction industry, where they have to go into safety, into learning the construction math and into building projects that often use tools, power tools, hand tools,” Allen said.
Allen said there is also a growing need for skilled workers across Central Florida as many experienced workers retire.
OUC says an additional 439,000 construction workers are needed nationwide today.
“There is a gap out there, usually about 60,000 in Central Florida alone,” Allen said.
OUC leaders say one thing that makes the program stand out is the direct connection to employers and industry certifications students receive.
“The thing about the iBuild program sponsored by OUC is that you come out with actual certifications,” said Alandus Sims, OUC strategic partnerships projects manager.
The program has already helped graduates like Vale Price Jr., who completed the training in 2021 and now works for OUC as a warehouse associate.
“When I came into the pre apprenticeship, I was more driven, had my head on straight and multiple different avenues for me to be able to get into the workforce,” Price said.
OUC says tuition, supplies and program costs are fully covered for participants. Officials say people interested in applying can find more information on OUC’s website.