News

UA-PTC Launches $1.8M YouthBuild BRIDGE Initiative at Providence Park

UA – Pulaski Tech officials gathered Wednesday at Providence Park to announce the launch of YouthBuild BRIDGE*, a $1.8 million grant-funded initiative designed to empower young adults while addressing regional labor shortages and chronic homelessness.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, the full-time pre-apprenticeship program will support 66 young adults ages 18 to 24 over the next three years.

Participants will earn a paycheck while completing their high school equivalency diplomas and earning industry-recognized trade credentials, including NCCER construction certifications and OSHA safety training.

Instead of working in simulated labs, participants will build real, permanent homes at Providence Park for Central Arkansas residents transitioning out of chronic homelessness.

"What makes YouthBuild BRIDGE so special is this powerful cycle of mutual benefit: as these young adults build homes for individuals exiting homelessness, they are building confidence, stability, and a foundation for their own future success," said UA-PTC Chancellor Summer DeProw. "Every nail driven and every frame raised creates shelter for a neighbor while opening a door to economic independence for a student."

The initiative addresses three distinct regional challenges simultaneously: providing economic opportunities for disconnected youth, creating a steady pipeline of certified workers for local contractors, and providing permanent housing for vulnerable community members.

Graduates will receive a full year of dedicated case management and job development services to assist their transition into registered apprenticeships with the Arkansas Construction Education Foundation, degree programs at UA-PTC, or full-time trade careers.

The launch event featured remarks from key partners, including U.S. Rep. French Hill, Providence Park CEO Errin Stanger, YouthBuild BRIDGE Project Director Dr. Cathy Riggins, and UA-PTC Director of Adult Education Bobbie Bournes-McNutt.

Additional regional partners supporting the program include the Academies of Central Little Rock Workforce Development Board, Be Pro Be Proud, Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde, and area trade contractors.

Pictured: Shown touring the grounds, from left, Providence Park CEO Errin Stranger, Chancellor DeProw, and YouthBuild BRIDGE Project Director Cathy Riggins

*YouthBuild UA-PTC is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor. The YouthBuild UA-PTC program has a total budget of $1,874,336.00 with 80% of YouthBuild UA-PTC financed with Federal funds, and 20% is funded by other sources.