Port of Seattle, Labor Partners Expand Apprenticeship Opportunities

The Port of Seattle announced a Memorandum of Understanding offering new apprenticeship opportunities at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The agreement was also signed by Parsons Constructors, Inc., the Seattle-King County Building and Construction Trades Council, AFL-CIO and the participating local unions, Pacific Northwest Regional Council of Carpenters, Laborers Local #242 & 440 and Operating Engineers Local #302.

Currently, the contractors, unions, and the Port - all parties to the Project Labor Agreement - already work with the Washington State Apprenticeship Council to increase the pool of workers skilled in the trades. Under the new agreement, pre-qualified applicants from community-based pre-apprenticeship programs will be given "preferred entry" into apprenticeship programs.

Veterans will also have the opportunity for preferred entry status. Through the "Helmets to Hardhats" program, as well as other community organizations dedicated to helping veterans enter the workforce, veterans will have the opportunity to become an apprentice and learn a skilled trade.

Preferred hire apprentices will be guaranteed up to six months or 1,000 hours when working with prime contractors.

"The Port of Seattle is committed to creating jobs and economic growth for our communities," said Tay Yoshitani, Chief Executive Officer. "Our success depends on a vibrant workforce, and we are honored to work with our partners in expanding apprenticeship opportunities to veterans and other citizens in King County."