Nearly 70 students graduated from The Samuel Staten Sr. Pre-Apprenticeship Program (SSSPAP) recently at its Second Annual Graduation Ceremony at the Sheet Metal Workers’ Union Hall in Philadelphia. The program is one of the region’s top emerging, comprehensive programs providing opportunities for pre- training and other career pathways. Since its inception, 62 participants have successfully entered trade-union apprenticeships, while 65 have used the training to follow different career pathways. According to recent reports, there are more than one million unfilled skilled trades jobs.
From left to right: Pennsylvania State Senator Vincent Hughes and Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, both longtime supporters, offered words of encouragement to the newly minted graduates who posed at their graduation ceremony.
Guerschon Cetoute celebrates graduation with his wife and daughter. A Haitian-American, Cetoute has already interviewed with Local 592 Cement Masons Union.
Johnathan Hernandez celebrates his recent graduation from the Samuel Staten Sr Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Hernandez has applied to the Local 98 Electricians Union.
Tia Mays is one of several women graduating from the Samuel Staten Sr Pre-Apprenticeship Program. She is seeking entrance into the Local 332 Laborers’ Union.
