HireLAX Apprenticeship Readiness Program Opens the Door to Tomorrow

LAX is the fourth busiest airport in the world, second in the United States, and was named Skytrax’ 2017 Top 10 Most Improved Airports. LAX served more than 80.9 million passengers in 2016. LAX offers 737 daily nonstop flights to 100 cities in the U.S. and 1,386 weekly nonstop flights to 88 cities in 44 countries on 73 commercial air carriers. LAX ranks 14th in the world and fifth in the U.S. in air cargo tonnage processed, with more than 2.2 million tons of air cargo valued at over $101.4 billion.

On September 11, 2017, the HireLAX Apprenticeship Readiness Program (APR) opened its doors to 30 members of the Los Angeles Community to help them overcome challenges and hurdles that have prevented them from obtaining or maintaining successful careers. The participants were chosen from a group of over 100 people who applied and attended an orientation in August of this year. Entering into the free, 8-week program are 8 women, 13 individuals who have been involved with the criminal justice system, and people who have recently become victims of housing insecurity and homelessness. As these individuals embark on this exciting program, they will be offered new experiences, training and support, and the opportunity to succeed in reaching their dreams.

According to Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, HireLAX is “harnessing the talent and hardworking spirit of Angelenos today — so they’ll be well-prepared to build for tomorrow.”

Additionally the program’s participants will receive well-rounded case management to assist them in developing the skills they need to overcome roadblocks that often prevent gainful employment including things like the lack of high school diplomas or GEDs, transportation issues, unaffordable or inaccessible childcare, homelessness, criminal records, and the lack of access to necessary trade tools and safety equipment. Graduates of the program will be introduced to apprenticeship programs and professional contractors to establish their construction careers at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Upon graduation, they will be contributing their hands-on skills and talents to help build the airport’s automated passenger transportation system and a rental car facility, both of which are important elements in airport modernization.

The HireLAX program was developed in accordance with the LAWA Project Labor Agreement which requires contractors and local construction unions to refer local workers to the Los Angeles World Airports project and extend opportunities to individuals who were not previously qualified for employment on construction projects.

According to Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, HireLAX is “harnessing the talent and hardworking spirit of Angelenos today — so they’ll be well-prepared to build for tomorrow.” The program is helping Los Angeles create a means for Angelenos to obtain lucrative careers in the local community.

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