On July 24th, fifteen students sat proudly poised in front of the UA Local 286 banner as they graduated from the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) pre-apprenticeship training program. After three weeks and 120 hours of in-person, hands-on instruction, and visits to union training centers, these scholars left with more than a certificate—they left with a clearer path towards a career in the skilled trades.  

The MC3 program is designed to help individuals interested in a career in construction and trades quickly, and thoroughly, while providing mentorship every step of the way. After touring the training center and meeting with director, Natalie Obregon, and instructor, Tyrone Robinson, I was able to speak with four graduates about their own experience in the MC3 program. Although each graduate arrived with different experiences, they all described the same transformation: MC3 replaced their uncertainty with confidence in their futures. 

Lorina Ramirez, mother of two, arrived to MC3 after a career in construction. Reginald (Reggie) Dwayne O’Neal had electrical experience working in re-modeling homes. Jonathan Sawyer, the youngest of the interviewees, operated heavy machinery before a car accident left him injured and struggling to find employment. M.J. Jones, the most unlikely candidate, worked in rehabilitative physical therapy when she stumbled across the MC3 training program at a job fair. “Most programs are recruiting for the younger folk…[but] Millennials, we still got it. I saw this [MC3] as a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Jones. Jones explains how many individuals feel like they do not have anywhere to go in a job market that does not seem to be hiring. However, O’Neal describes that, at the MC3 program, “they have stuff…that they can get you connected with and that’s what I’m looking for, at 51.” With a vast array of ages and experiences, there is a place for every student at MC3. 

“They’ll take you as you are. You don’t have to know anything at all,” claims Jones. All participants echoed that the MC3 program provides more than just encouragement—it is a teaching philosophy guided by learning on the ground, in real time. The students described learning blueprint reading, construction math, and electrical wiring. Sawyer noted that, “yesterday I knew nothing about electrical circuits” and now, each student has successfully “learned how to wire junction boxes,” said Ramirez. When describing the classroom lectures O’Neal explains, “there are no fall asleep moments.”  

During MC3 training, all students achieve their OSHA, CPR, and First Aid certifications. For Ramirez, this was an essential career move because “even if you’re not gonna go into the industry, safety is very important anywhere.” To O’Neal, the First Aid and CPR training had a profound impact on him emotionally—learning “the importance of bringing somebody back to life or extending somebody’s life if you have the opportunity was amazing.” However, the comment that surprised me the most was that of Sawyer explaining his previous experience. “Having worked in construction and now looking back, I can see how many dangerous situations that I was in that I wasn’t even aware of,” said Sawyer. When asked if he feels better prepared to be safer in his future work, he said, “one hundred percent.” 

The goal of the MC3 program is to prepare students to apply to an affiliated apprenticeship program with a local union. Apprenticeships are nationally recognized and registered programs that provide structured training and employment in the trade of your choosing. The programs vary depending on the trade, but students split their time between instruction and on-the-job learning. Apprentices are paid an hour wage that increases annually and receive health insurance and retirement benefits. Apprenticeships can lead to a family-sustaining income and a life-long career for many. Before MC3, “I actually came into this thinking I was just going to get the information to get back into construction” said Lorina Ramirez, “but now, at the end of this, I applied to get into Sheet Metal to be a part of the union.” Apprenticeship programs can be competitive, but MC3 students visit with many union training centers and meet their leadership teams. Therefore, students are more prepared to complete their applications. “Being certified and being in the union, just really excited me,” said O’Neal. One student, MJ Jones, “already got invited for an interview with plumbing and pipefitting,” after leaving a positive impression on the union members during a tour. The MC3 program allots time for students to fill out the applications. They mentor students through every application until acceptance, even after the program has finished. 

After graduation, the atmosphere was electric with excitement—possibly, influenced by the new Milwaukee backpacks. “I’m going to celebrate my accomplishments and share it with my children,” gushed Ramirez, “I’d refer anybody to take the MC3 program. It’s very informational and it’s an opportunity to grow.” 

If you are interested in participating in the next Central Texas MC3 training, visit Texas Construction Career Pathways where you can find out more information about the program and a contact form.