Shortage of skilled labor in the construction industry has local job hunters cashing in on the building trend

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Local companies said work is available on many housing and commercial construction sites-- people just need the right training-- the industry itself in re-building mode.

"Average age is at 55 in the industry. That shows you we have a desperate need to bring people in," said Michele Daughterty, ABC NorCal CEO.

Twenty-seven graduates of the 12 week Valley View Pre-Apprenticeship Program set out to impress company reps ready to hire. The 12-week building trades program is designed for low-income applicants.

Joe Garcia said construction has rebounded after the economic downturn.

"A lot of people left our industry, whether that was trainees or journeymen, quality craftsmen, and so now we are having to basically revamp our industry."

Raquel Duran wants to work in carpentry. As one of the few women in the program she stood out during her interviews.

Graduates learned about hand tools, power tools and Cal/OSHA requirements these past three months.

"So filling that entry level gap with some entry levels skills that will then lead them to whatever pathway-- we have individuals that want to go all the way to industrial level like electrical," said Daughterty.

"The candidates are getting training in pre-apprenticeship, which is huge because it gives them indoctrination into what our industry demands," said Garcia.

Garcia said some of these applicants may become future construction site supervisors.