Vance County is the first recipient of a pilot program titled Constructing Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) aimed at helping local youth ages 16 – 24 earn their high school equivalency diploma while receiving hands-on job training in the construction industry.

Offered in part through the Triangle Literacy Council based out of Durham, NC, Jason Williams, program manager, was recently on air to discuss the P2P program.

“Those who participate in this program will get a national certification and learn soft skills such as interviewing techniques,” said Williams. “This program is aimed at helping young people get back on the right track, complete their education and gain job skills.”

According to Williams, participants receive $50 per week to take education classes to help them with their literacy and math skills, with the ultimate goal being to earn their high school equivalency diploma.

Through the P2P program, participants take education classes to help earn their high school equivalency diploma while constructing low-income housing through partnerships with local organizations such as the Kerr-Tar Workforce Development Board.

“This is a six-month, full-time program with 15 participants at a time,” said Williams. “It runs four days a week with two days dedicated to the education component and two days spent on the construction site.”

Upon successful completion of the program, participants earn a construction certificate that makes them “highly employable” and receive assistance in securing a job.

According to P2P’s brochure, participants can earn up to $200/month while attending the program, and all P2P graduates will receive a laptop upon completion of the program.

To qualify, an applicant must be between the ages of 16 and 24, not have completed a high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma, or, if diploma has been earned, need help improving literacy and math skills and have an interest in learning the construction trade.

There is a one-week pre-selection screening program, including physical exercise, life skills, testing, training program and orientation.

More information about the P2P program, including an application, can be found at the Triangle Literacy Council’s website at www.triangleliteracy.org/p2p. With additional questions, please call Williams directly at (252) 204-2967.