Workforce Development Program Feeds Region’s Construction Needs

Emily Feroce has never worked in the construction industry, but a new program organized by the Allegheny County Airport Authority has put her on the fast track to a career in the building trades.

And just three days into the PIT2Work training program, she already has a pretty good idea of what she wants to do.

“I’m thinking about carpentry,” she said. “My dad had a cabinet shop.”

Feroce, of New Kensington, is one of about two dozen people enrolled in the first class of PIT2Work, which provides free training in the skills and certifications needed for jobs in the construction industry.

The Builders Guild of Western Pennsylvania runs the training through its “Introduction to the Construction Trades” program. Upon completion, graduates earn letters of recommendation and connections to local unions. Best of all, they are invited to an on-site