Second PIT2Work Class Graduates with Sights Set on New Careers

Lisa Gilmore started PIT2Work as a second chance to entering the trades. Five weeks later, she is on her way to starting a career with the Painters Union.

Gilmore is one of 14 PIT2Work graduates, all of whom gathered at a commencement ceremony on Monday alongside Allegheny County Airport Authority leaders, regional executives and union representatives in celebration of their achievements.

The pre-apprenticeship training program, organized by ACAA and the Builders Guild of Western Pennsylvania’s “Introduction to the Construction Trades,” was designed to give participants access to the skills they need to succeed in the trades. Now, it’s wrapped up a second round.

Throughout the five-week program, PIT2Work participants attended an on-site career fair, visited local unions, earned construction certifications and underwent classes in construction math, all to help prepare them for their future careers. The second group echoes the success of the first group, most of whom have already started careers in the trades since graduating in July.

At the commencement ceremony, the graduates, a diverse group of men and one woman ranging in age f