The first class of the Rebuild Texas Carpentry Skills Training program at Rockport-Fulton High School includes (from left) instructor Alex Bayarena and students Terry Roller, Aaron Rodriguez, and Fernando Reyes. Courtesy photo
To help boost rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Harvey devastated the Coastal Bend two years ago, Del Mar College has opened a free carpentry program to train much-needed workers. Registration is currently underway for the Rebuild Texas Carpentry Skills Training program, which helps residents become qualified carpenters.
The class is being paid for by a nearly $880,000 grant from the Rebuild Texas Fund. It runs simultaneously at three locations for 10 weeks, 8 AM-5 PM Monday-Thursday, July 29 through October 1. Anyone age 18 or older is eligible to attend, no prior experience required. Also, all tools and supplies are provided.
“The program is great for someone who wants to get to work quickly, doesn’t mind working outside, and wants to make a decent wage,” said Leonard Rivera, Ph.D., dean of Continuing Education and Off-Campus Programs. “The skills they learn will last a lifetime, regardless of the profession they choose. There is a high demand for carpenters in the area right now.”
Class locations are:
- Del Mar College West Campus
4101 Old Brownsville Road
Corpus Christi
Rockport-Fulton High School
1801 Omohundro St.
Rockport
Ingleside High School
2789 Avenue G
Ingleside
Courses include:
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Certification
- Construction Math and Measurement
- Introduction to Power Tools
- Introduction to Blueprint Reading
- Communication and Workplace Skills
- Tools and Techniques for Carpentry
- Framing and General Construction
Another session is planned to run from October 7 through December 17. The college said it refers students to contractors and builders for hiring after graduation. The first of these classes will hold a completion ceremony at the college on July 24.
