June 2, 2021, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – GRCC Workforce Training programs provide in-demand skills leading to rewarding careers. Each Wednesday we’ll meet students who are heading down an educational pathway and changing their lives by earning occupational certificates.
NaiDra Walls was a returning student, and said the GRCC Residential Construction Job Training Program gave them more than in-demand skills. It gave them confidence.
Since starting at Rockford Construction in May 2020, Walls has been promoted and received several raises in pay. They could not be happier, “Rockford has a great company culture! I’m excited to go to work every day!’
Walls’ path to GRCC took many twists and turns. They hold a couple academic degrees, has their realtors license, and has started a non-profit. Walls came to GRCC when there was a need to fix up homes in the Detroit area.
“I’m an older student so I wasn’t really sure how it was going to go for me,” Walls said. “Our instructor, Kyle, was super consistent and a great example of how to handle any situation. He was a great role model and stressed that the most important lesson is to care about people and have a little fun, too!”
GRCC offers three 18 week Job Training Certificate programs in the field of construction; Introduction to Construction, Residential Construction, and Construction Electrical. GRCC offers other industry certifications including; Carpentry Certification 1, Commercial Construction, Lead Abatement Training, and the National Green Infrastructure Certification Program.
The Residential Construction program takes place at a construction site, where students build a new home.
Students get hands-on learning and application about the entire process of residential building including blue print reading, site layout, concrete, carpentry, door/window installation, roofing, siding, and interior finishing. Graduates are qualified for employment in the residential construction industry. The program focuses on constructing homes that achieve a 5-Star Energy rating, are Michigan Green Built, and LEED Certified.
Walls is currently working on a construction site in Ann Arbor, which works good for them and the work being done with their non-profit.
“My advice to anyone in a construction work environment – show them what you know and ask a ton of questions! It’s the best way to learn in the construction industry. GRCC Job Training gave me the confidence to ask the questions.”
Anyone interested in gaining career skills through GRCC Workforce Training can connect via email at workforcetraining@grcc.edu, and by phone at (616) 234-3800. Additional information is at grcc.edu/programs/job-workforce-training.
