Proactive Solutions: Florida reBuilds Helps Involve Katrina Victims in the Process

Florida reBuilds is a new training initiative aimed at alleviating the shortage of construction workers in the state.

"Even before hurricanes caused significant property damage ... we were experiencing a shortage of workers in the construction field," said Toni Jennings, Florida's Lieutenant Governor.

"The continued recovery from the last two hurricane seasons and the continued expansion of Florida's booming economy depends upon having an adequate supply of skilled trade workers to meet the demand. In meeting that demand, we are also creating employment opportunities for many Floridians whose jobs have been affected by the hurricanes."

"The program is open to everybody," says Len Tylka, president of the Florida Home Builders Association.

"I've already had several calls to me from people that have been displaced out of jobs or out of homes because they lived in areas that have been hurt by the hurricanes."

"It is entry level training," adds Tylka. "There will be additional training that will be available to these folks ... if they decide to progress in this career."

State universities, community colleges, vocational centers and the like will provide the training. The curriculum will be designed and developed by the Florida Department of Education in conjunction with the FHBA and other industry groups in the state.

Tylka says the labor shortage is due in part to the fact that high school students are not being encouraged to pursue construction careers, with the misperception being that these jobs don't pay well.

For more information about Florida rebuilds go to www.employflorida.com or call (866) FLA-2345.