• The program lasts four weeks and helps neighbors in Leon and Gadsden County.
• According to Census Bureau job-to-job flow data, 1.9 million construction workers will leave their jobs to work in other industries in 2024.
• Watch the video above to hear what students and instructors have to say about the benefits of the free course.

TRANSCRIPT

“It’s money that’s just lying there.”

Savanna Irving lives in Tallahassee.

She points to fallen wood and lumber on the side of the road.

This wood can be valuable for construction.

“It's money, just like tree trimmings. Use a chainsaw, cut them up and take them to a lumber yard.”

I met Irving at the Goodwill on Mabry Street in southwest Tallahassee.

She attends the orientation session for the free 20-day building program.

Goodwill partners with the construction industry and is ready to help neighbors enter the construction industry.

I asked Irving why she enrolled.

“Independence. I'm so tired of always having to go somewhere and have things built for me.”

The doors to careers in the construction industry are wide open, especially for women.

According to the National Association of Women in Construction, 9.9% of construction workers in the United States are women.

The free course not only benefits neighbors like Irving, but also helps other neighbors looking for a second chance.

“Programs like ours are open to virtually anyone between the ages of 18 and 80. Construction in general is a background-enhancing industry.”

Johnny Hughes is a program teacher here.

“Because the need is so great, some exceptions are made. Whatever your background, it should not be an obstacle or stop you from pursuing a career in the construction industry.”

In terms of demand, the Census Bureau's job-to-job flow data indicate that 1.9 million construction workers will leave their jobs to work in other industries in 2024.

Reasons why students like Irving say she has to jump into it.

“I’m just looking forward to the opportunity!”