Modeled after a successful training program that originated in Seattle, the Apprenticeship Opportunities Project (AOP) assists women, people of color, low-income adults and youths access careers in the construction trades through the union apprenticeship training system.

The AOP also seeks to influence public policy and drive the demand for apprentices via Saint Paul City Council Resolution 06-304, which mandates that apprentices work 15 percent of the total build hours on all public projects and on private projects that benefit from city tax credits, financing or other aid.

The Apprenticeship Opportunity Project targets its outreach efforts in several directions, including:

• Services to Career Seekers
The AOP refers job seekers to relevant training programs, math tutoring and one-to-one career coaching, and the AOP links individuals who are interested in pursuing trades careers with technical college programs.

• Services to Contractors
The AOP provides construction trades contractors looking to strengthen and diversify their workforce with a pool of work-ready individuals. The AOP also endeavors to retain qualified apprentices by providing ongoing assistance and resources.

• Service to the Community
The AOP works with Twin Cities youths to inform students about the variety of craft apprenticeships. Programs focus on the benefits of a career in the construction trades and on the minimum requirements needed to enter apprenticeship programs.

To arrange for a speaker to address your group, or to learn more about the AOP, contact:

Mary Dahlquist
Apprenticeship Opportunities Project
Saint Paul Regional Labor Federation
651-222-3787, extension 19
mdahlquist@stpaulunions.org.