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CARP’S IMPACT; GIVING PHILADELPHIA STUDENTS THE SKILLS TO SUCCEED IN THE INDUSTRY
CARP’S IMPACT; GIVING PHILADELPHIA STUDENTS THE SKILLS TO SUCCEED IN THE INDUSTRY
BY TAQUAN WOODARD, CARPENTER | LF DRISCOLL AND GINA YIANTSELIS, FIELD ENGINEER | LF DRISCOLL
The Carpenters’ Apprentice Ready Program (CARP) is an eight-week, weekend apprentice-training program that gives local Philadelphia residents the math and skills training they need to apply for the official four-year union carpenter apprenticeship program. Created by Carpenters Joint Apprentice Committee of Philadelphia, the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, and GBCA, CARP helps Philadelphians who have traditionally faced barriers to employment, particularly in the trades.
GBCA recently spoke with two former CARP graduates, now CARP instructors about their experience in the Program.
How and why did you get involved in CARP?
Gina Yiantselis, Field Engineer at LF Driscoll: At 27 years old I was doing everything I was told I should to have a successful life. I got my undergrad degree and tried corporate life, but I wasn't happy. In the fall of 2018, I asked myself, “What do I want?” I thought hard about what makes me feel proud and satisfied in my work. I realized working in the restaurant industry was satisfying to me because I liked the camaraderie as well as the physical aspect of working. However, that job wasn’t sustainable for me because it didn’t offer health benefits or a retirement fund. I decided to do some research, and that’s when I found CARP graduate Layla Bibi's number. After I called Layla and learned about her experience in the program and two days later, I signed up and was eager to start.
Taquan Woodard, Carpenter at LF Driscoll: I got involved because I’m passionate about construction and wanted to be a part of something big. Participating in the CARP pre-apprentice training was a great experience! I made a lot of friends and met great instructors who gave me the tools to succeed as an apprentice.
How did CARP prepare you as an apprentice for the transition to the job site?
Gina: In the past, I worked on small projects around the house with my dad growing up, but I had little to no technical skills before joining the program. CARP helped me brush up on my math skills and taught me hands-on skills to prepare me for a career in the union.
Taquan: CARP prepared me for working in the field through my instructors’ teachings. My instructors shared their life experiences as apprentices and gave me tips on how to be a professional. They instilled the need to have a good work ethic, always be on time and always be willing to help. The transition from apprentice to career was pretty challenging at first, but the skills I learned at CARP made the transition a lot easier.
Now as instructors of CARP, what is the value of the pre-apprentice program?
Gina: Four years after joining CARP, I am now an instructor alongside one of my closest friends I met while we were students together at CARP. I’ve been able to mentor students and help them reach their potential for a successful career in the trades. CARP does a fantastic job of getting students involved with different areas of work so they have a good idea of what direction they want their career to go.
Taquan: There is a lot of value in joining CARP! It’s a great program and a great opportunity to live your dream and follow a passion for carpentry.
Advice or tips for someone looking to get involved in CARP?
Gina: If anyone is considering a career change and is interested in the trades, CARP is a great place to start looking. The skills and the support I have gained from going through CARP has done so much to help me along the way and I couldn't be prouder to be part of helping the next generation of union tradespeople be successful in their career.
Taquan: My advice for someone looking to get involved in the industry is to apply as soon as you can. Being a part of CARP will give you a great support system and resources to lead you to a path of success.
