Hunterdon County Polytech Pre-Apprenticeship Career Training Program graduates first class
FLEMINGTON, NJ (Hunterdon County) – Students enrolled in the Hunterdon County Polytech Pre Apprenticeship Career Education (PACE) Electrical Training Program received their certifications of completion on Wednesday.
The PACE career training is funded through a state grant from the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce and initiated by the New Jersey Apprenticeship Network.
Commissioner Zach Rich, who also serves as the co-liaison to the Hunterdon County Vocational School said, “On behalf of myself and the entire Commissioner Board I would like to congratulate the recent certificate recipients. This isthe first PACE Pre-Apprenticeship program for Hunterdon County Polytech, and I hope this will open the door to enrollment for future classes. It is a great opportunity for students of any age, from a variety of backgrounds to receive free training and get paid while learning valuable job skills.”
The PACE Pre-Apprenticeship program is available for students that are recent high school graduates or someone seeking a new career opportunity. The program training is free to those that qualify and provides hands-on career training, as well as comprehensive support like, transportation, childcare, mentoring opportunities, and ELL tutoring to ensure the students’ success, all while getting real-world experience through a job internship.
Hunterdon County Electrician, Paulo DiBetta, a graduate of the four-year Polytech Electrical Apprenticeship Journeyman Program, was the instructor for the PACE class. Mr. DiBetta’s supervisor and the Department Head for Buildings and Maintenance, Justin Tibbetts shared, “When Polytech called me about having our building trade staff teach the program, Paolo jumped at the opportunity and was very eager to help share his knowledge and teach the next generation of Hunterdon County Trade personnel.”
Participants interested in the PACE Pre-Apprenticeship program must be 16 years of age or older, and be interested in skills like Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry, or Welding.
Upon program completion, students can continue their education or secure employment as a registered apprentice. PACE offers paid work experience with local employers in a chosen field at $15 an hour. The program is committed to preparing students to have a successful career through industry-based training and classroom lessons.
