Granholm Celebrates Successful Worker Training Program

Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm this week announced the first group of individuals who completed the Road Construction Apprenticeship Readiness Program (RCAR). The program, which prepares underrepresented individuals for careers in road construction, is an important element of Granholm's comprehensive plan to grow the state's economy. Launched in April, the Road Construction Apprenticeship Readiness Program is part of Granholm's ongoing economic agenda, which includes accelerating $150 million in road projects over the next two years. The tuition-paid, fast-track, customized training equips women, minorities, and low-income individuals with the skills and certification needed to enter and succeed in road construction apprenticeships.

Participants completed an intensive five-week program that included 150 hours of training in job readiness skills, applied math, computer applications, blueprint reading, workplace safety, and overview of the road construction trades. Assessment and training was coordinated through Michigan Works! Agencies. Candidates were selected from three targeted areas with the highest percentage of road construction projects.

The Road Construction Apprenticeship Readiness Program is under the Road Construction Workforce Development Program and is supported with funds from the Federal Highway Administration.