The Providence Preservation Society, in partnership with Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island and Heritage Restoration Inc., is pleased to announce the launch of a paid, hands-on five-week job training program in historic window restoration. The Window and Workforce Training Program (WWTP) is a pilot program that will offer valuable training to under- and unemployed Rhode Island residents that will enable them to:
- Repair and maintain historic, wooden sash windows;
- Build basic business and entrepreneurship skills; and
- Acquire other valuable skills for employment in the preservation field
Under the guidance and supervision of preservation professionals, carpenters and tradespeople, and business mentors, participants will gain the necessary knowledge in historic window restoration to find employment in the industry or start a small restoration business. During the training, students will practice their traditional restoration skills and gain on-the-job experience while working on an 18th-century building in Providence. Upon successful completion, students will receive a program certificate and a completion bonus. The program will run for 5 weeks beginning October 1 and ending November 6, 2020. Applications to kmullen@ppsri.org or via Google Forms by September 4, 2020. More information about the program is available here.
As part of the program, 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 the construction of combination wooden screen/storm window and an introduction to hardware for energy efficiency and ease of operation.
Historic Preservation Education
Participants will be taught basics of historic preservation, historic preservation nomenclature, window and wood nomenclature, Preservation Briefs apropos to windows, and an overview of the Secretary of Interior Standards for Rehabilitation.
Lead-Safe Certification
Training on safe practices related to handling and working with lead-based paints, important EPA certifications, and instruction materials.
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.
Small Business Guidance
Each class will receive detailed guidance on starting and marketing their own 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.
For more information, please contact Brent Runyon.
About the Providence Preservation Society
Founded in 1956, The Providence Preservation Society (PPS) works to improve Providence by advocating for historic preservation and the enhancement of the city’s unique character through thoughtful design and planning. PPS is one of the nation’s oldest and most respected preservation organizations and is supported, in part, by 500 local and regional members. Over its more than 60 years, PPS has accomplished its mission through education and advocacy, and has established itself as a leader in citywide planning and preservation.
About Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island
Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island works to empower refugees and immigrants in the community by providing vital programs and services for legal aid and representation for citizenship and immigration, refugee resettlement, education, and more to help the people it serves to thrive and be successful. Through its Employment Services department, DORCAS connects refugees, asylees, immigrants, and other jobseekers to job opportunities while assisting them to reach their long-term career goals through comprehensive career planning and skills training.
About Heritage Restoration Inc.
Robert Cagnetta began Heritage Restoration, Inc. in 2001 as a broad range construction and restoration service company — from general contracting, building maintenance, window restoration, to fine craftsmanship — all dedicated to preserving and enhancing a building’s beauty, function, efficiency, and charm. Heritage Restoration has been in the Rhode Island window fabrication, repair, and restoration business for over 25 years, and continues to revitalize historic windows throughout New England.