In answer to the ever-more-pronounced labor shortages suffered by the pool/spa industry and construction trades in general, the Northeast Spa and Pool Association (NESPA) is piloting a new outreach program to pair interested high schoolers with employers in need.
As reported in a previous issue, NESPA and its chapter, the Long Island Pool and Spa Association, have been working with the Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES), a vocational and technical training program for both high schoolers and adults. It is preparing to offer a class geared to adults considering a new career path.
Now, the associations have added an outreach program targeted to high schoolers who are exploring trades such as plumbing and construction through BOCES.
“Some kids [know they] are going to be carpenters,” said NESPA Executive Director Dominic Mondi. “But some are just learning skills and looking for an industry and a profession.”
In March and April, NESPA made multiple online presentations to more than 200 students in the Long Island area to discuss the industry and its career opportunities. Members then conducted what are called qualification interviews with interested students. During these exchanges, students are gaining interviewing experience, and learning about the industry while employers find out where these students are coming from.
“Basically there was learning on both sides,” Mondi said.
NESPA now will begin creating work study and apprenticeship programs for interested students, including those who need credits to graduate. Part of that task involves learning what is required of employers offering work-study opportunities.
NESPA hopes to work with more BOCES schools in New York and, eventually, take the program to the other three states NESPA serves — New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania.
“We’re looking for workers, they’re looking for jobs and they’ve got skills,” Mondi said. “We’re going to keep working to make that marriage happen.”
