ANNOUNCING CYCLE 3 OF THE WINDOW & WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAM

The Providence Preservation Society (PPS) in partnership with Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island and Heritage Restoration Inc. is pleased to announce the launch of a paid, hands-on six-week job training program in historic window restoration. The Window and Workforce Training Program (WWTP) offers valuable training to under- and unemployed Rhode Island residents with barriers to employment that will enable them to: 

• Repair and maintain historic, wooden sash windows;
• Build basic business and entrepreneurship skills; and
• Master other related skills for employment in the preservation field

Under the guidance and supervision of professional preservation craftspeople, PPS staff, and guest lecturers, participants immerse themselves in the architectural history of Providence and the preservation and technical skills needed to care for the thousands of wooden windows across the state. The blended curriculum offers ample hands-on experience, in addition to historic preservation 101 courses, and real-world study alongside veteran restoration professionals. PPS assists with job placement following successful completion of the training program, and students will receive a program certificate and a completion bonus. The training will run for 6 weeks beginning January 23 and ending March 3, 2023.

APPLY BY DECEMBER 13

All applicants must attend one virtual info session being held on November 20 at 12:00 pm, December 8 at 5:30 pm, and December 12 at 5:30 pm. Sign up for a session here. 

Each student will receive:

Intensive Hands-on Training

Students will learn sash removal, safe paint & glass removal, epoxy wood repair, glazing putty application, weather stripping & sash installation. Participants will know, from beginning to end, how to completely restore a double-hung wooden window. They will also learn construction of combination wooden screen/storm windows and an introduction to hardware for energy efficiency and ease of operation.

Historic Preservation Education

Participants will be taught the basics of historic preservation, historic preservation vocabulary, window and wood nomenclature, Preservation Briefs related to windows, and an overview of the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.

Lead-Safe Certification and OSHA-10 Certification

Training on safe practices related to handling and working with lead-based paints, important EPA certifications, and instruction materials. Additional training on common safety and health hazards on the job.

Specialized Tools

Each student receives and keeps a set of hand tools specialized for wood window restoration. With these tools and other basic carpentry tools, the trainees will be in a position to immediately begin working in this specialty.

Training on Weatherization and Sustainable Benefits

The students will be instructed on specific techniques to improve the efficiency of older windows. 

Job Readiness & Business Guidance

Each class will receive detailed guidance on the business side of the window restoration business and other wrap-around skills for success in the industry. This guidance will be presented by professionals in the field, and students will receive one-on-one mentoring. 

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must:

• Have a strong interest in pursuing hands-on preservation work as a vocation.
• Possess appropriate fine motor skill abilities and ability to lift 30 lbs.
• Possess appropriate comprehension, verbal, written, and math skills to complete requirements of the class, equivalent to a 7th Grade proficiency level.
• Possess an appropriate temperament to work cooperatively and collaboratively in a small group.
• Agree to follow all safety instructions and use all available safety and personal protective equipment as instructed.
• Commit to the full six-week course (January 23-March 3, 2023) and be at the designated training site approx. 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.
• Be at least 18 years old and a resident of Rhode Island.
• Have reliable transportation to and from the designated training site(s) for the duration of the class.
• Wear appropriate work clothing and personal protective equipment (mask, long sleeve shirt, long pants, close-toed shoes & head covering).

The Program will provide:

• All necessary tools – trainees may bring their own tools but they must be clearly marked.
• Personal Protection Equipment as needed.
• Lead Safe Work Practices training sufficient to qualify the trainee for EPA/RRP certification under the current EPA rules.
• Instruction in the business, marketing, and entrepreneurial aspects of preservation trades.
• English language support and case management as needed
• A weekly stipend equivalent to $15.00 per hour.
• RIPTA bus pass for the duration of the program if needed
• Light breakfast and lunch.

Submit completed applications by Google Form or to kmullen@ppsri.org by December 13, 2022.