Charlotte spends $2M on training for transit jobs

Residents in Charlotte are gaining access to a new funding stream that pays for technical training and provides daily stipends. The city has allocated more than $2 million to these workforce development programs. The initiative is designed to align local skills with the requirements of upcoming infrastructure projects.

The city plans to invest more than $25 billion in transportation and transit improvements over the next 30 years. Local officials estimate this spending will generate approximately 6,000 jobs in construction, skilled trades, and professional services. The training programs aim to ensure that existing Charlotte residents can compete for these positions.

One active program, Skilled to Build, currently has 19 participants in its class. These individuals are in the first week of a four-week curriculum. The initial phase focuses on CPR, first aid, and job site safety protocols before the group moves to hands-on construction tasks. The course covers the basic steps of road construction.

Katrissa Johnson, a local mother of four, enrolled in the program after working two jobs simultaneously. She cited a desire for greater financial stability and a career she could build upon long term. Johnson, who uses the name Tee, discovered the opportunity through an online job search. She is one of only three women in the current cohort.

"I was working two jobs. And just realizing, working two jobs is still trying to make ends meet. It was like, it’s time for something different and something that I can build a career off of," Johnson said. She noted that she enjoys working with her hands and being outdoors.

Danielle Frazier, special assistant city manager for workforce development, stated that the city’s goal is to place individuals on sustainable career paths. She acknowledged that some entry-level roles may not immediately provide a livable wage, but she argued that the training leads to sustainable earnings. The city provides credentials and skills so participants can qualify for specific employers.

The Charlotte Area Fund administers the training in partnership with the city. Nicholas Wharton, the fund’s president and CEO, explained that the curriculum prepares participants for highway construction. Students receive first aid and flagger certifications. The fund also covers transportation costs and provides childcare assistance when needed. Participants receive a financial stipend during the four weeks of training.

Frazier emphasized that training alone does not guarantee employment. Participants must still actively apply for roles and present themselves to potential employers. The city intends to connect graduates with partner employers to facilitate hiring. The program will run four times per year. Interested individuals can contact the Charlotte Area Fund or sign up through its website.