On
April 21, 2017, twelve students from six different tribes graduated from the
pre-apprenticeship Cement Masons Tribal training program. This program is
a partnership between MnDOT, Tribes, and the Cement Masons, Plasterers & Shophands
Local 633.
This is the third graduating class from this program and a
total of forty two graduates have completed the program. The training took place over twelve weeks and the students
learned skills in areas such as: concrete form work, concrete finishing and
pouring, and forming curbs and gutters.
Moke Eaglefeathers, a program instructor said the program
provides “hope, a sense of wellness, and a sense of pride” for members of the tribal community. As a
Native American, Mr. Eaglefeathers embraces the opportunity to give back to his
community by passing on the skills he has acquired.
During the ceremony, Ashanti Payne from MnDOT Office of Civil Rights spoke about MnDOT’s commitment to seek partnerships with unions, tribal groups, and community-based organizations in an effort to continue to build a competent and diverse workforce for construction projects in Minnesota.
This partnership is one of many workforce development opportunities sponsored by the MnDOT Office of Civil Rights. To learn more about workforce programs and services, visit our website at mndot.gov/civilrights.
|