Building Skills New York, which finds construction jobs for the underemployed and unemployed, has continued to train people during the pandemic and is gearing up for the restarting of the economy, The Bronx Times reports.
“I don’t have a crystal ball, but as things get reactivated we’re looking to activate the pipeline,” the publication has quoted the organization’s executive director David Meade as saying, following weeks of operation where all of its business needed to be done remotely.
As well, with the exception those working at non-profit housing projects, many of the organization’s training clients have been laid off because of the pandemic.
Meade said that Buildings Skills has been a major part in ensuring communities are ready for post-pandemic opportunities by using its model to help restore the jobs that got put on hiatus during the initial phase of the crisis.
Individuals have been dealing depression and lost wages, so Meade and his staff helped them get benefits, apply for unemployment and checked in on their well being.
Staff created virtual training for clients so they can comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) certification requirements, including two hours of drug and alcohol awareness, and eight for fall protection. These programs need to be completed by September.
With construction starting to reopen, Meade expects a spike in demand — in part because many people from other sectors laid off from their jobs may wish to start construction careers.
“I think there will be a huge spike in jobs. We’ll be busier than ever,” he said.
