BUD Workforce Program Cancels June Cohort

Date Posted: May 1, 2020

Posted In: COVID-19 Updates, Organizations, Workforce,

The Building Union Diversity program (BUD) announced that the third cohort for 2020, which was to have started June 15, has been cancelled.

“COVID-19 continues to impact BUD, the building trades and their training facilities, along with the construction contractors,” Russ Signorino, BUD program director, said. “The past few months have been difficult for all of us. Most of us have been personally affected, or know someone that has been affected, financially, medically or both.

“Our last graduating Class BUD 19, finished their five-week training at the very same time that the virus was beginning to have its major impact. Many contractors instituted temporary hiring freezes and the training facilities began closing to keep their members and staff safe. Most of BUD 19 is still looking for work.”

The program had previously cancelled the second 2020 cohort, was scheduled to start April 13. The fourth cohort, which was to have started Aug. 17 will move up to Aug. 3, with interviews on July 29.

‘We know that restarting in late July may be a little aggressive,” Signorino said.  “But we have three months to prepare, including planning to keep our participants, staff and presenters safe. And, finishing two weeks earlier than planned could help this next class find employment soon after graduation.”

Application and agency referral forms, program information, and information about a Work Keys prep program conducted by the The School District of University City are available for download by clicking here.