Build Cleveland.
Build Your Future.

“Before joining WISE Pathways, I had been working from home for three years and felt somewhat stuck in my career. The program equipped me with the mindset and skills needed to re-enter the workforce with confidence. The nurturing environment... The practical experiences, such as workplace scenario training and resume workshopping, were instrumental in securing my new position as a Mobile Support Representative at Spectrum, where I earn $20/hour. This program has truly reminded me that it's never too late to start over and make positive changes in your life.”

“The Greater Cleveland Partnership has provided unparalleled information and support to the growth and the advancement of our company. Aria Johnson has lots of knowledge and resources, but most of all a sincere desire to help others. Since getting in the program, we have increased our workload, staff, education, and certifications. Truly thankful for Aria and this program.”

“Aria Johnson at Greater Cleveland Partnership has been a direct resource to help me resurrect my construction company, Amber Walls Interiors, after a two-year hiatus. During those two years, I pursued a commercial construction management certificate that prepared me for the business side of my industry. Under her guidance, I have completed and received two Lead Safe certificates. The networking and education through Environmental Health Watch has fueled my desire to be a part of something that will not only help my company but ultimately help my community, which I am extremely passionate about.” 

Latalya Gibson had a clear goal: to work in carpentry. Her journey began with an introduction to construction through the Urban League Work Now program, where she received career guidance and support. With coaching and determination, Latalya was referred to Cleveland Builds and enrolled in their Union Construction Apprenticeship-Readiness Program. She proudly graduated from the program, marking a significant milestone in her career development. Today, Latalya is employed by John G. Johnson Flats Construction LLC as a carpenter, earning $22.51 an hour.

With guidance and support from the Urban League Work Now construction program and partners, Carolina Dublin earned three certifications to apply in the electrical trade. To enhance her math skills, Carolina enrolled at Tri-C University. She also pursued a one-year electrical apprenticeship program at Ohio Business College. She graduated from the program with valuable training and confidence in her abilities. After excelling in the interview process at Apprenticeship Tradesman Incorporation, Carolina was offered an electrician apprenticeship with a starting wage of $25 per hour.

James Price relocated from California to Cleveland and came to the Urban League for career guidance. He received coaching and SOAR training before applying for a position with the National Park Service. James was offered a seasonal position paying $24 an hour, leading to year-round employment. James eagerly accepted the offer, marking an exciting new chapter in his professional journey.

Courtney Slanker is working at Forest City Erectors Inc., and she needed some pretty expensive gear – a harness and tool holders. The Built Environment Collaborative’s Trainee Fund was able to fund it, and she is so grateful! Courtney came through Towards Employment after being released from incarceration and was also working with Reach Success to obtain her GED.

Brandon Thompson, a 33-year-old with a GED, approached the Urban League with a strong desire to work in construction. He faced several challenges, including having to retake his driver’s test, no transportation, and having a criminal record. Brandon was introduced to construction specialty areas, including trade apprenticeships through Cleveland Builds, construction unions, City of Cleveland job opportunities, and environmental job roles. He applied to Browns Landscaping, a non-union company offering regular employment with year-round residential work. After a successful interview, Brandon was offered a laborer position starting at $17 per hour.

“I left my old job one week and then was here the next week. AC at Cleveland Builds made sure I was good and put me in touch with the right people. And he still follows up with me now.”

“Tanisha will do anything you ask of her with 100% ambition," said Jason Anderson, Field Supervisor. "She gives you all the effort that you could possibly ask for.”

Regency currently has three Cleveland Builds graduates on their team. Two are highlighted on this page – Hannah Brown and Tanisha Dobbins. “Hannah, in her first year, won CEA’s apprentice of the year award. It was absolutely 100% earned and deserved. We were incredibly proud of her,” said Jason Anderson, Field Supervisor. “Tanisha will do anything you ask of her with 100% ambition. She gives you all the effort that you could possibly ask for. We love having them around.”

“It was super lifechanging. The staff were so invested right off the rip. ‘We hear you, that you’re into carpentry. We like that. Here’s a woman-owned company we think you’d like.’ They put me in touch with all the necessary people. It was so seamless. They very empowering and encouraging. I would do anything Cleveland Builds.”

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“Hannah, in her first year, won CEA’s apprentice of the year award. It was absolutely 100% earned and deserved, said Jason Anderson, Field Supervisor. “We were incredibly proud of her.”