CONSTRUCTION INCLUSION WEEK PARTNERS

OIC of America

Attracting individuals from every background to build long-term careers in the trades requires a collective effort. It takes a dedicated network of general contractors, trade contractors, workforce organizations, and industry leaders working in tandem to raise awareness about available opportunities and prepare candidates for their future. This progress relies on forward- looking partners committed to opening doors, expanding access, and showcasing the security, mobility, and value the industry provides. 

  • Philadelphia, PA (National)

OIC OF AMERICA
KEY PROGRAMMING

Dr. Leon H. Sullivan established the first OIC in 1964 inside a repurposed Philadelphia jailhouse, founding the organization on a model of self-reliance. Over six decades, OIC of America has expanded into a national network of local affiliates that provide job training and placement services to individuals facing employment barriers, including formerly incarcerated adults and unemployed youth. 


OIC’s affiliate and partner network delivers classroom and hands-on instruction for industry credentials in a variety of industries, including construction, based on regional hiring demand. Through its SOAR initiative, OIC provides job preparation, transitional coaching, and support services to formerly incarcerated individuals, lowering recidivism by placing graduates directly into stable employment. For younger populations, local affiliates provide secondary education instruction, GED preparation, and STEM coursework to build early career pathways. 

“Opening the door gets people in. Inclusion is what keeps them there. Retention is won or lost on the jobsite, and that is where this industry's future gets built. Our work is simple: give people skills, give people opportunity, and remove the barriers that deny people access to both.” 

- Louis King, President & CEO of OIC of America

"Construction Inclusion Week asks our industry to open doors, and that has been OIC's work since 1964. But opening the door is only half the job. This country is full of trainers. What we need is people who stay, and inclusion is how you keep them. When you train a worker with purpose and welcome them on the jobsite, you are not lowering the bar. You are widening the door and building a workforce for everyone." 

- Louis King, President & CEO of OIC of America

“Inclusion in construction means giving people access to training, opportunity, and people who believe in them. At PROJECT BUILD, we see how that support builds confidence, and confidence is currency. Our partnership with OIC helps us open more doors so individuals can build sustainable careers and stronger futures for themselves and their families.” 

- Aram Wheatley, Founder & CEO, PROJECT BUILD 

*Part of OIC of America’s partner network Avren, YouthBuild Boston Student

HOW TO ENGAGE:

YOU CAN ALSO REACH OUT TO oic of america'S POINT OF CONTACT:

Ted Mondale, Vice President, Industry and Employer Partnerships 
tmondale@oicofamerica.org | (612) 723-7086