On Saturday, June 21, dozens of students from Northern California Construction Training (NCCT) took a big step toward careers in the construction trade. They received certificates of completion in a pre-apprenticeship training program that will qualify them to join any construction trade union.
More than 224 NCCT students earned their certificates this year, with 88 coming from Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) programs serving community school students, parolees, or probationers working to transition back into their communities.
“Keep working hard,” Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon told the graduates. “Each of you has shown that you have the strength of character to persevere through any and all adversity.”
NCCT graduate Nichole Brogdon not only received her certificate—plus several awards for her class successes—but was presented with the keys to a vehicle. Each year, NCCT receives a donated vehicle, repairs and registers it, and awards it to a deserving graduate. “This means so much to me,” Brogdon said. “Now, I can drive to work and help my family.”
NCCT is a non-profit, community-based organization that helps students transition to careers in the construction industry. It was formed to provide well-paying careers in construction to anyone with the desire to complete the program and participate in apprenticeship training. The organization features trained staff members who teach and mentor students.
SCOE plays a vital role in providing technical assistance, curriculum and instructional support, staff development, fiscal services, and oversight to Sacramento County school districts. SCOE operates special education programs for students with severe disabilities, a juvenile court school, community schools for high-risk and at-risk students, and career technical education courses. SCOE also provides services to parolees and probationers, helping them transition back into their communities.