The Tennessee Valley, particularly the Huntsville and Madison County area, is growing at an unprecedented pace. To meet the demands of the rapidly growing industrial base, Drake State Community & Technical College has established a commercial construction training program.

The HBCU (historically black college and university) said it established the program to combat the construction trade shortage and to help people develop technical skills to find jobs.

Placement and apprenticeships coordinator Karen Ray said the program will address workforce gaps as builders seek skilled labor to complete their ever-expanding workloads.

“It’s difficult to meet business demands, so we want to do our part by training the skilled workers companies need right now,” said Ray.

The college is encouraging interested participants to apply as soon as possible. Attending students will learn the basics of commercial construction and safety fundamentals. According to the release, in just eight weeks, students can become certified builders.

Full tuition assistance is available to eligible students. Local companies have offered Drake State commercial construction graduates full-time employment opportunities – at a rate of 100% – since the program’s launch.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL