Another CISCO Partner Success Story

Oct. 19, 2022

VILLA PARK – On Oct. 5, CISCO partnered with the Villa Park-based Resilient Project UPSTART, a non-profit organization providing non-college bound students with the knowledge and skills to enter an apprenticeship program in the Union building construction trades, and participated in its annual Trades Awareness Fair.

When a Forest Park-based Ironworkers Local 1 retiree and his son stop by CISCO’s booth during the Trades Awareness Fair, CISCO’s Education-to-Careers Director Jamillah Muhammad has an opportunity to discuss the apprenticeship process of various construction trades. Photo courtesy of CISCO

More than 20 contractor and Union trades used the time at the event to educate students and adults how to apply for an apprenticeship program and the benefits of a career in the building construction trades. Last year, Sal Torres, 20, participated in Project UPSTART, learning the skills he needed to apply for an apprenticeship with the Carpenters. He currently is employed with Executive Construction as a first-year apprentice.

Project UPSTART graduate Sal Torres, 20, right, currently works for Executive Construction as a first-year Carpenters apprentice. Torres, is pictured with Executive Construction employees – including Chairman John Blacketor, left, who calls Torres a “rockstar,” saying he’s never missed a single day. Photo courtesy of CISCO

Executive Construction Chairman John Blacketor said Torres is an amazing young man and excellent employee. “He has never missed a single day, is on time and is learning his skills at warp speed. He is a Rockstar,” Blacketor added. He also stressed that partner involvement – like CISCO, is critical to the success of the initiative.

“These events lead to more awareness throughout the communities and provide added exposure and benefit to our industry for years to come. We look forward to expanding on these efforts and to making a difference in the lives of those who are exposed this program.