The School District of University City’s Adult Education and Literacy Program (UCAEL) and Clayco’s Construction Career Development Initiative (CCDI) combined forces to develop a comprehensive 5-week "Beyond These Walls" Career Prep Integrated Education Training Program. This partnership offers a well-organized sequence of activities that balance classroom learning, hands-on experience, soft skills development, and certification attainment for the Trades. In this context of construction and workforce development, "IET" refers to Integrated Education and Training, a model that combines adult education, workforce preparation, and vocational training to help individuals gain skills and credentials for in-demand careers. Cohort 1 took place over May-June 2025!
Program Ouctcomes
OSHA 10 Certification (6)
Forklift Certification (11)
CPR/First Aid/AED Certification (11)
Employment Skills Certification (3) (Soft Skills-11 Modules completed)
Forklift Training In-Class Training
3 Day Forklift Training was held June 16-18, 2025 taught by Trainer, Lauren United Rentals at CSI Warehouse from 9am to 1pm. Coordinated Through CCDI Clayco
Projected class of 12 Participates
As part of the University City Adult Education’s Beyond These Walls IET Program, we were honored to welcome a representative from Stowers Realty Group, Janelle Stowers (owner) who generously shared her time and expertise with our adult learners.
Participants had the opportunity to learn firsthand about career pathways in the real estate industry from an experienced professional. The speaker’s insights into the field, ranging from licensing to day-to-day responsibilities, offered a realistic and inspiring look at what it takes to build a successful career in real estate.
This engaging session brought our curriculum to life and served as a valuable bridge between classroom learning and real-world application. As part of their continued learning, adult learners reflected on the presentation through follow-up assignments to reinforce the concepts and career pathways discussed.
We sincerely thank Stowers Realty Group for their support and commitment to empowering adult learners. Their contribution made a lasting impact, helping students connect their educational goals to meaningful, achievable career opportunities.
4 Participants eager awaiting entry into the fall or spring HVAC Training!
Participants in the Beyond These Walls IET Program also had the exciting opportunity to tour the newly opened STLCC Manufacturing Center, where they were introduced to a variety of high-demand training programs in the skilled trades.
During the visit, adult learners engaged with STLCC staff and instructors, explored hands-on training labs, and gained valuable insight into career pathways in fields such as welding, precision machining, and industrial maintenance.
However, the area that sparked the most interest among participants was the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) program. With its blend of technical skills, job stability, and strong earning potential, HVAC stood out as a top choice for those looking to enter the skilled trades workforce.
This visit offered our learners a real-world glimpse into what’s possible through technical education and workforce training. It also reinforced the importance of exposure to industry settings and programs that align with in-demand careers.
We are grateful to STLCC for opening their doors and supporting our mission to help adult learners build bridges from education to employment.
On behalf of the Beyond These Walls IET Program, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Chris Adair of the PATTS Carpenters Program for taking the time to speak with our participants.
Chris shared powerful insights into the path of union carpentry, the value of apprenticeship opportunities, and the mindset needed to succeed in the skilled trades. His deep experience and passion for workforce development offered our learners a realistic and inspiring look at careers in construction.
Hearing directly from a professional like Chris helped our participants better understand the opportunities available and what it takes to grow in the field. His message was both motivating and informative, reinforcing the importance of dedication, discipline, and hands-on learning.
We are truly grateful for Chris’s continued support and mentorship. His commitment to empowering young adults plays a meaningful role in their personal and professional development.
Thank you, Chris, for investing your time and energy into building the future of our workforce.