For three young men looking for apprenticeship opportunities in the construction-related trades, the 6-9 week course offered by Waterbury's Industrial Management and Training Institute (IMTI) is a great introduction to the basics of construction, plumbing, electrical and HVAC. Graduates who have completed 224 study hours together earn a Certificate of Achievement from IMTI and an OSHA-30 credential from the Occupational Health and Safety Administration. Video by Jay Dunn.
Guide
Program Details
In these training sessions, you'll learn:
How to stay safe on construction sites:
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OSHA 10: teaches basic safety and health information to entry-level workers in construction and general industry. It is part of the OSHA Outreach Training Program, which explains serious workplace hazards, workers' rights, employer responsibilities and how to file an OSHA complaint.
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OSHA 30: teaches general worksite safety, avoiding common hazards, understanding workers' rights, employer responsibilities and more.
How to handle potentially dangerous materials:
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HAZWOPER: teaches vital safety and health information to workers who perform cleanup, emergency response or corrective actions involving the uncontrolled release of hazardous substances. This includes work related to hazardous chemical leaks, chemical fires and site preparation that uncovers buried hazardous waste
The important elements of construction work for entry-level positions on project sites:
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CORE Curriculum: training that provides the basics in safety, hand and power tools, construction math, materials handling, construction drawings, rigging and employability skills.
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Additional trainings include introduction to heating and cooling systems (HVAC), plumbing, and electrical work.
Orientation sessions are held each Thursday at 249 Thomaston Avenue in Waterbury, CT beginning at 10:00 am. You do not need to RSVP to attend, but you will need to be on time to participate.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have a GED with a 9th grade reading level, or have a high school diploma
- Have a birth certificate and social security card
- Be able to lift 40lbs, pass drug test and physical
- Have a valid CT driver's license and reliable transportation
How to Apply
To learn more about the program and register, attend an information session on Thursdays at the Waterbury American Job Center.
DATES AND TIME: Thursdays, beginning at 10AM
LOCATION: 249 Thomaston Avenue, Waterbury, CT 06702 (entrance under the blue awning)
You don't need to RSVP to participate, but you will need to be on time.
Meet the Team

Joe Diorio
Manager of Construction Services

Peyton Stephens
Re-entry/Construction Career Navigator
Additional Resources
The Northwest Construction Careers Initiative is particularly helpful to Waterbury job seekers because the program administers the City of Waterbury's Good Job Ordinance. The ordinance requires publicly-funded construction contractors to hire a percentage of Waterbury residents.