Habitat for Humanity training program

Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona CEO Jason Barlow joined Arizona Horizon to talk about a new program that aims to teach invaluable skills to those who want to go into construction.

Habitat for Humanity has been in the Arizona Valley for 39 years, providing construction and repairs of homes for the needy within the community.

“We’ve been in the Valley for so long, fixing and building homes. We’re great at training. We take people that don’t know anything about the construction trade,” said Barlow.

“We teach them everything they need to know. So it dawned on us: why don’t we do that in a classroom? Why don’t we actually try to fill the gap of missing construction workers in the Valley?” said Barlow.

The construction training center has a classroom, a computer lab, and a laboratory where students are trained in electrical and plumbing. Students are also given hands-on training with mock buildings.

The first center had its opening on Dec. 8, 2023, and was attended by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, who spoke at the event about the importance of job training.

Those who go through the program can graduate with a National Center for Construction Education and Research Certificate, OSHA 10 Training Certificate, and are offered job placement opportunities.

Applicants who need a GED can also obtain one through this program.

“Nobody that I tell this program to doesn’t think it’s amazing,” said Barlow.

The program lasts from nine to 12 weeks. Those interested in joining the program can visit the Construction In Training area of AZ Job Connection to find out how to apply.