Students built picnic tables as their first project using power tools. Courtesy photos.
Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Construction Academy (VCA) is proud to announce the successful completion of its first Vermont Department of Labor Certified Pre-Apprenticeship Bootcamps, marking an important milestone in workforce development for Vermont’s construction industry.
Over the past eight weeks, 20 students participated in two summer cohorts designed to introduce young adults and career changers to opportunities in the skilled trades. The first session ran five weeks at 40 hours per week, while the second offered an intensive 12-day format timed before the start of the new school year. Participants will return to VCA during school breaks for continued training over the next six months.
“This first summer proved what we hoped to achieve—that with the right training and mentorship, young people and career changers can be quickly prepared to step into rewarding careers in construction,” said Ross Lavoie, Manager and Instructor of the Vermont Construction Academy. “The demand for skilled workers is greater than ever, and our graduates are stepping up to meet that challenge.”
-
Each student built a wall that included a door and window opening.
-
Students took part in HVAC demonstrations from a couple of different local companies looking to hire apprentices.
The goal of the bootcamps was to prepare participants with the skills, knowledge, and expectations necessary to thrive on commercial construction sites. In addition to hands-on training and safety standards, students heard directly from industry professionals through a series of “TED Talk”-style sessions. Guest speakers included HVAC technicians, electricians, craft managers, HR leaders, financial experts, and even a chiropractor—sharing lessons on everything from injury prevention and financial planning to interview readiness and career growth.
“This was a great experience for anyone looking to get into the carpentry trade,” said George Pavlov, one of the summer bootcamp students at the Vermont Construction Academy. “I learned the basics of how the industry works and how to use power tools safely, but also gained valuable insights from Ross and others with decades of experience. Their wisdom has already helped me start shaping my own career path. Every day I left the program feeling challenged and energized, having learned everything from fundamental carpentry skills to answers to complex, big-picture questions.”
Looking ahead, Lavoie emphasized the importance of continued collaboration among employers, educators, and industry partners. “To keep building the workforce our industry needs, we must continue to innovate, think outside the box, and work together. The tides are changing—people are realizing that college isn’t the only pathway to success. Careers in the trades are not only lucrative, but often deeply rewarding. The future of construction in Vermont looks very bright.”
About Vermont Construction Academy
The Vermont Construction Academy (VCA) is a workforce development initiative designed to introduce and prepare individuals for careers in the skilled trades. Through pre-apprenticeship bootcamps, hands-on training, and industry partnerships, VCA is building the next generation of construction professionals to strengthen Vermont’s workforce for decades to come.
WINOOSKI, VT— September 8—Learn more at www.vermontconstructionacademy.org
To support vital journalism, access our archives and get unique features like our award-winning profiles, Book of Lists & Business-to-Business Directory, subscribe HERE!
