Pictured, left to right, at the graduation program: Dante Hickey, Patricia Vaughn, Jalen Hickey, City Fields Special Projects Coordinator David Goodwill, Cleveland State NCCER Construction Core Instructor Brad Laxton and Cleveland State Project Coordinator Bre LaMountain
Students in the Cleveland State Community College Workforce Development construction fast-track program earned industry certifications and gained hands-on experience working on community projects. Partnering with City Fields and the Southeast Tennessee Development District, four individuals completed the 150-hour program at the Partners in Industry and Education Center in Cleveland.
During the seven-week program, students earned four nationally-recognized industry certifications in OSHA 10, CPR | First Aid | AED, Forklift and the National Center for Construction Education & Research Construction Core Certification.
Local construction projects were completed as part of the program.
The students built raised garden beds for a community garden in the Blythe neighborhood. The Cleveland State Law Enforcement Academy physical ability course was repaired and rebuilt by the students.
Brad Laxton, Cleveland State NCCER Construction Core instructor, said, “The work project for the Law Enforcement Academy was a great day. We had the opportunity, as a class, to use the skills learned in a hands-on environment and enjoy the finished product.”
Student Jalen Hickey said, “I was blessed to be able to participate in our community/class project. I really enjoyed working hands-on along with my fellow classmates. Being able to turn a plain pile of lumber into a nice finished product was rewarding and gave a sense of accomplishment. This class has meant a great deal for me, and I encourage anyone interested in joining to jump on board.”
Two of the four students secured employment with Cleveland City Schools Facilities and Operations Department as a result of their participation in this program. Hal Taylor, Cleveland City Schools Director of Operations, said, "Both of these gentlemen have a strong work ethic and have been great to work with so far. One student is already working as a supervisor on our job site."
The second cohort of this program starts in fall 2023. For more information, contact Bre LaMountain, Workforce Development Project coordinator, at alamountain@clevelandstatecc.edu or 423-614-8795.
Pictured, left to right: Instructor Brad Laxton, Jalen Hickey, Dante Hickey and Patricia Vaughn build the Cleveland State Law Enforcement Academy physical ability course steps