Nine talented students celebrated in July as they graduated from the Google STAR (Skilled Trades and Readiness) training program. The ceremony took place at the Virginia Portuguese Community Center in Manassas. It was attended by friends, family, and Google and NOVA leadership.
The five-week paid pre-employment program, funded by Google, aims to develop a robust pipeline of skilled trade workers. It focuses on entry-level talent from underrepresented communities to bolster the workforce in specific regions. In this boot camp-style program, through a combination of instruction, hands-on practice and construction site visits, participants learn about the various skilled trades, disciplines and careers (e.g., electrical, carpentry, HVAC, welding and plumbing), preparing them for entry-level positions in construction.
The program’s core areas are construction (carpentry, mechanical, electrical) and fiber optics. In addition to training, it also offers professional networking opportunities to help students enter the workforce after the program. To date, 31 NOVA Google STAR students have graduated from the program since October 2023.
The Google STAR program is intended for individuals interested in a career in construction. Students accepted into the program participate in training that mirrors a 40-hour work week in the construction industry. Once they have completed the program, participants can apply for entry-level jobs in the skilled trades. The program also helps participants earn industry-recognized certifications such as CPR/ First Aid and OSHA-10.
Ready to start your career in the construction industry?
The next Google STAR (Skilled Trades and Readiness) cohort, cohort #4, is now open to sign up for the program if you are interested.
Deadline: Applications Due August 16
In person informational sessions are being held Wednesday, August 14 and Monday, August, 19 evenings from 6pm – 7pm at the Manassas Trailside Building.
Here’s the first step please fill out the Interest Form.
For more information about the program, email Veronica Ortiz (Ronni) at vortiz@nvcc.edu.