Building Futures Project Graduates 5th Class

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)

The Community Services Agency's GSA Building Futures Project successfully graduated their fifth pre-apprenticeship class this week.  The nineteen youth graduates celebrated their accomplishments Wednesday afternoon at Covenant House Washington surrounded by enthusiastic family, friends, and project staff.  Representatives from IBEW Local 26, Clark Construction, and the General Services Administration were also on hand to show their support of and appreciation for the program. Graduate and class valedictorian Paul McDuffey (r), whose mother is an IBEW Local 26 journeywoman, congratulated his peers and acknowledged the staff who contributed to the graduate’s success. “We are not done with you yet!” promised CSA Executive Director Kathleen McKirchy. The students have now started the job development portion of the program where they will apply and interview for apprenticeships and other employment opportunities. - Jasmine Butler and Lizet Ramirez, AFL-CIO Union Summer Interns; photo by Sylvia Casaro-Dietert