| OTIA III State Bridge Delivery Program |
|
|
 |
| Web Brief (Dec 06) |
|
Opportunity rings: ODOT establishes toll-free job line
Some people say opportunity knocks. But for those seeking a career in construction in Oregon, opportunity also rings.
ODOT has set up a toll-free phone number for anyone seeking employment or apprenticeship opportunities with ODOT’s contractors on highway construction projects.
And unlike other job inquiries, this one comes with a guaranteed call back. Prospective workers just need to dial 1-877-972-5700 and leave a message. Within 48 hours, they will hear from an ODOT Office of Civil Rights representative in their area telling them how to get involved.
It’s all part of the agency’s Workforce Development Plan, an innovative program to build Oregon’s construction capacity. All over the state, ODOT is engaged in major construction projects to improve the highway infrastructure, including projects in the OTIA III State Bridge Delivery Program, which is repairing or rebuilding hundreds of aging highway bridges. Improved highway infrastructure will help encourage economic growth by keeping commuters, commerce and tourists moving across Oregon.
With so many construction opportunities available, there is a critical need for trained workers to fill them. The Workforce Development Plan is designed to provide training resources and opportunities for those looking for highway construction careers.
The plan will also provide long-term stability in Oregon’s workforce by increasing diversity and apprenticeship participation and helping to train more workers. With a new generation of construction workers, the state will be well-prepared to meet future construction needs.
The toll-free number is the newest tool available to help prospective workers. Applying for jobs and getting into apprenticeships can be tough. It’s often hard to know where to go or what to do. The 1-877-972-5700 number streamlines the process. Now, it’s easy to get the answers that lead to meaningful work and, perhaps, a new career.
In keeping with today’s diverse workforce, the number has a bilingual message service as well. Callers can leave a message in English or Spanish, and get a call back in that language.
“The new toll-free number gives people a simple, direct line of communication,” said Michael Cobb, manager of ODOT’s Office of Civil Rights. “Now anyone, anywhere in the state, can receive personal guidance about construction opportunities in their area.”
|
|
|
|
