Bridge to Construction Program
Construction Training
Bridge to Construction offers a fast track to employment in the construction industry. In just nine weeks, Bridge students receive the training and support they need to enter into an apprenticeship program and start a career in the trades.
Who is Bridge for?
Bridge to Construction is a pre-apprenticeship job training program for people ages 18-26 with a high school diploma or GED living in Multnomah or Washington County. Bridge students are motivated and willing to work hard to start their careers in the trades.
No experience is required and Bridge is completely free! Want to learn more? Contact us today!
Are you ready?
- 9-weeks of hands-on job training
- Up to $15 an hour while you learn
- Weekday training from 8am-3:30pm
- Personalized career coaching
- Industry-recognized certifications such as BOLI, OSHA, and CPR
- Direct and preferred entry into paid apprenticeships
- The most experienced and effective construction training program in the area
Construction Training
The Bridge program draws on PYB’s long history as a pre-apprenticeship training program, licensed general contractor, and builder of affordable homes. Through intensive hands-on training and classroom instruction, Bridge students gain a solid understanding of all aspects of residential construction – from pouring foundations to installing interior finishes. Students also earn the equivalent of up to $15/hr and industry-recognized certifications that prepare them for jobs in the trades.
PYB’s Bridge to Construction program is designed for people at all experience levels, providing the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully transition into an apprenticeship program or the workforce upon completion. Classes are taught by PYB’s own journey-level tradespeople, all with significant experience teaching and working in the construction industry.
Career Development
Because our Bridge students come to us with a clear career goal in mind, career development for these students becomes much more focused, much more quickly. Bridge students are exposed to many different apprenticeship programs to help them decide which one is right for them. Whether a student is preparing for a career as a laborer, carpenter, electrician, ironworker, or any other trade, PYB staff are right there to help make it a smooth transition between finishing Bridge and starting their apprenticeship or job.
Students receive career counseling and support with researching and applying for jobs or apprenticeships. All students learn to prepare for the challenges and opportunities in the construction industry, as well as a monthly stipend.
Personal Support and Leadership
Bridge students are supported by a dedicated team of staff committed to helping them reach their goals. For those facing significant barriers, PYB can help. Our case management teams work closely with students to identify and address obstacles, ensuring they stay on track toward success. If barriers are more significant, students can access additional support through our own counseling staff or with connections to outside resources.
Leadership opportunities are plentiful on the jobsite. Bridge students who are highly motivated can apply for a “job lead” position, a position of higher responsibility and authority on the construction site that helps prepare students for eventual leadership roles in the working world.
Long Term Support
PYB is dedicated to the long-term success of our students, providing support well beyond the nine-week Bridge program. We remain a resource for graduates throughout their time in apprenticeship programs and even once they are employed. Since apprenticeship programs can take up to four years to complete, Bridge students stay connected with PYB staff long after finishing the program.
Become a Student
Does Bridge sound like the right program for you, or someone you know? You could be on your way to a high-paying job in just three months! Get in touch to learn more at apply@pybpdx.org or 503-286-9350.
Bill’s Story
After growing up in a rough neighborhood, the loss of a childhood friend made Bill feel like he needed a fresh start. With the help of a family member he tried a few different times to get his life back but still found himself lacking motivation until one day…
Amber’s Story
Amber joined us as a single mother of two determined to create a better life for herself and her children. The fact is that our rigorous performance and attendance standards are challenging for all students, and particularly difficult for those…
Matt’s Story
Matt knew he wanted to work in the construction industry, he just didn’t know the best way to go about getting his foot in the door. By the time Matt had walked in our doors he had already spent quite a bit of his hard-earned money on a different training program and…
Bill’s Story
After growing up in a rough neighborhood, the loss of a childhood friend made Bill feel like he needed a fresh start. With the help of a family member he tried a few different times to get his life back but still found himself lacking motivation until one day…
Amber’s Story
Amber joined us as a single mother of two determined to create a better life for herself and her children. The fact is that our rigorous performance and attendance standards are challenging for all students, and particularly difficult for those…
Bridge to Construction FAQ
How much does Bridge to Construction cost?
Our Bridge program is totally free, thanks to our many generous donors. In fact, we’ll even pay you a stipend so that you can worry less about your bills and focus more on your future. Bridge to Construction trainees earn up to $15 an hour over the 9-weeks of training.
My family (or case worker, parole officer, etc.) wants more information about PYB. What should I tell them?
We’re happy to explain the program to anyone in your circle of support. You can pass along their information or direct them to contact us at 503-286-9350 or appy@pybpdx.org.
Can I hear from someone who’s been through your program?
Many young people have received job training and started a great career with our help. We encourage you to read through some of our student stories.
When can I start the Bridge program?
We welcome new students every couple months, so there is always an upcoming program start date.
What is a pre-apprenticeship program and why is it important?
A pre-apprenticeship program prepares you for an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a paid opportunity to work and learn. Apprenticeships are available across many areas of the trades, such as carpentry, roofing, HVAC, and more, and are often competitive and may require prior experience in the field. For that reason, many people need a little help and training before they are ready to jump right into an apprenticeship. During the PYB pre-apprenticeship construction program, students receive hands-on training, certifications, and career support to prepare them for success in future apprenticeship positions.
What kinds of jobs are available after Bridge to Construction?
While participants spend the most time learning carpentry, the skills they learn are applicable across the construction industry and our students enter many different trades after completing our program. A few examples of employment after PYB include carpentry, roofing, HVAC, plumbers and steamfitters, heavy machinery, electricians, and more!
I’m not sure if I want to do construction but I would like to explore. Is Bridge to Construction a good program for me?
Our Bridge to Construction program is designed for young people that know they want to begin a career in the trades. We can recommend other options if you are exploring careers or looking for a quick job.
Contact Us
To get started with Portland YouthBuilders, contact our admissions team at 503-286-9350 or apply@pybpdx.org.
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