The idea behind a free training program in Springfield is to get people into higher paying jobs. And the Missouri Job Center is looking for the Green for Greene program’s next class.
During the five weeks of classes, participants gain 13 certifications needed for careers in the environmental field: OSHA 10, OSHA Hazwoper, Trenching & Excavation, Confined Space, Lead Renovation Repair & Paint, Lead Abatement, Mold Abatement, Asbestos Handler, Forklift Driver, Silica, Flagger, Bloodborne Pathogens and First Aid/CPR.
So far, 54 people have graduated from Green for Greene, and MO Job Center spokeswoman, Katherine Trombetta, said 34 have gone on to work in environmental-related jobs.
"We've had some great success stories of people who were working in jobs that were making, you know, much less as far as a wage," she said, "and they've been through this training. They've been able to go and get jobs that are higher-paying, with better benefits and just provide an overall better life for themselves and their families."
Graduates are working in various areas, according to Trombetta, including installing solar panels for solar companies, as general laborers for labor unions and as drivers for a variety of companies.
The next class begins July 5, and applications are due June 17. Applicants must be at least 18-years-old.
Classes are held daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
An informational session will be held June 11 at 9:30 a.m. at the Missouri Job Center, 2900 E. Sunshine in Springfield.
Green for Greene is funded with a $200,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency.
