Transportation Cabinet
Training Program Provides Job Opportunities to Minorities, Women, and Under Employed Citizens

     More Kentuckians will get a chance at working in the transportation industry thanks to a new training program implemented by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Lincoln Trail Area Development District (LTADD) in partnership with the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College.

     On Friday, July 29 in Elizabethtown, individuals will graduate from the first phase of the Career Pathways to Highways project. The graduates are now either ready for jobs in the transportation sector or will receive more training.

     “We are excited about the results of this program,” said acting Secretary Bill Nighbert. “We are moving forward to improve the recruitment and training of minorities, women, low-income and unemployed individuals so that they may have a career in the transportation industry and a brighter future.”

     Out of the 32 individuals who enrolled in the program, 11 found work before completing the training and 19 will graduate. Eight of the graduates will go on to complete heavy equipment operation training, three will receive CDL training, four will pursue an associates degree related to the transportation industry and four are planning to work for the Transportation Cabinet or private contractors.

     The first phase of the program, which began February 1, 2005, provided twenty-two weeks of skilled training to program-eligible participants including under employed, unemployed and/or low-income individuals that are interested in transportation career opportunities. Additional phases of the program will allow participants to pursue a career path in highway related fields.

     The Career Pathways to Highways program has been authorized by FHWA with On-the-Job Training (OJT) funds.  Pending federal approval, this program may soon be available in Maysville and Covington. This endeavor will result in providing a well-trained workforce in the highway construction industry, the Transportation Cabinet and Kentucky.

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