Rock Valley College Celebrates HCCTP Graduation Ceremony

• Students
• 06/24/2024

Rock Valley College (RVC) held the graduation ceremony for participants of the Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) on Thursday, June 6, from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Main Campus ERC—PAR.

The event celebrated the achievements of individuals who completed the intensive 14-week program designed to prepare them for successful careers in the construction trades.

The Highway Construction Careers Training Program aims to help women, underrepresented individuals, and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals gain acceptance into the construction trades. During the 14-week class, participants will engage in 450 hours of skilled trade preparation and apprenticeship readiness training, with the goal of applying for and obtaining local union apprenticeship opportunities.

Representatives from area non-profits and local unions attended the graduation ceremony along with family and friends who shared words of encouragement and support with the graduates.

This year's HCCTP class is the 25th class to complete courses at RVC. "These graduates are closer than ever to their goals, said HCCTP Coordinator Dawson Ingram. "They are equipped with more skills that are desirable in the industry or as a means to achieve whatever future they envision for themselves."

The graduates were invited to share presentations of their experiences during the ceremony.

Day'Kwan Jackson shared his reason for applying to HCCTP, including his mother’s encouragement and desire to continue his education in construction. "I was working in a low-end job. Nothing was going my way, so I decided to try the program. This has been one of the best decisions I've made in my life. Meeting Dawson, the wonderful instructors that teach me little things, not just in construction but in life."

A favorite part of the program for Evan Garrett was bonding with peers as a diverse group with shared aspirations. "Some of us had prior experience in the field while others were stepping into this world for the very first time. Despite these differences, we quickly discovered that our true strength was in our ability to support one another and work together as one unit.

Stephanie Corsello described hands-on work for the group, including visiting roofers, plumbing & pipe fitters, and sheet metal workers unions. "The union participation was really insightful. We got to tour mostly union facilities to do Q&A with lots of questions that are typically shared on the website or differ from union to union. Also seeing the different aspects of what is covered under every jurisdiction."

The HCCTP program covers Math for the Trades, Life Skills, Job Readiness, Blueprint Reading, OSHA 10-hour, Welding, Equipment Operation, and Hands-On Projects. It is offered at no cost to the participant as it is funded entirely by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

The graduation ceremony honored the graduates' hard work and dedication and highlighted the program's success in fostering new opportunities for those entering the construction trades.