The earn-and-learn Utility Pre-Craft Trainee (UPCT) program by LADWP and IBEW Local 18 provides comprehensive training and benefits to midlife career-changers, opening doors to full-time employment.
For those seeking a career change and a chance at stable employment with good benefits, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) offers a unique opportunity through its earn-and-learn Utility Pre-Craft Trainee (UPCT) program. Jointly provided by LADWP and IBEW Local 18, this program offers extensive training and support to individuals looking to transition into the utility industry. With a focus on removing structural barriers to full-time employment, the program has proven to be a game-changer for many participants.
A Pathway to Success
The UPCT program, launched in 2011, aims to provide an alternative pathway to civil service careers at LADWP. Unlike traditional training programs, UPCT goes above and beyond by offering paid positions with benefits to trainees, ensuring financial stability during their transition. The program’s goal is to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in various positions within LADWP, preparing them for a successful future.
Midlife Career-Changers Find Stability and Growth
Many of the trainees in the UPCT program are midlife career-changers who are seeking more than just a job. They desire stability, opportunities for growth, and the security of good benefits. Mayra Canales, a former in-home caregiver, joined the program in 2013 and has since been with LADWP for over a decade, currently working as a plant equipment operator. Her story is a testament to the program’s success in providing individuals with a chance to build a fulfilling career in a new field.
Hands-On Training and Support
Once selected for the UPCT program, trainees receive hands-on training and guidance to learn the various positions within LADWP. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of the utility industry, allowing trainees to gain knowledge and expertise in their desired areas of specialization. With the support of experienced professionals, trainees have the opportunity to explore different aspects of the job and apply for openings that align with their interests and goals.
Removing Barriers to Employment
One of the key strengths of the UPCT program is its commitment to removing structural barriers to full-time employment. The program has achieved remarkable success, with almost 85% of participants either being hired full time or still in the program. By providing paid positions and benefits, the program ensures that trainees can focus on their training and development without the added stress of financial instability. This approach has proven to be a game-changer for individuals looking to transition into the utility industry.
Scaling for Greater Impact
Recognizing the need for more employees and the demand for the program, LADWP and IBEW are working together to scale the UPCT program. Currently, there is a waitlist of 2,000 people, highlighting the high demand for this unique opportunity. Cynthia McClain-Hill, the president of the LADWP Board of Water & Power Commissioners, emphasizes the importance of expanding the program to reach more individuals and communities. The investment in the program is significant, but LADWP sees it as a workforce development strategy that can create lasting change and uplift entire communities.
Conclusion:
The LADWP earn-and-learn Utility Pre-Craft Trainee (UPCT) program offers a transformative opportunity for midlife career-changers looking for stability, growth, and good benefits. By providing paid positions, extensive training, and hands-on support, LADWP and IBEW Local 18 are paving the way for individuals to build successful careers in the utility industry. With a focus on removing barriers to full-time employment, the program has proven to be a game-changer, opening doors to the middle class for those who may not have had such an opportunity before. As the program continues to grow and expand, it serves as a model for workforce development strategies that can change entire communities.
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