Completion of roofing academy means jobs for four

Details: Lance Martin; News; 08 November 2024; 739

Today marked the celebration of four men, three of whom were present, as they were presented their certificates for completion of the GAF Roofing Academy, a course that will allow them to work for eight months on the 150 homes project in Littleton, a workforce housing development that uses 3D printed concrete.

Called the Workforce Development Graduation, today’s matriculation was made in part by several sponsors which include GAF, TNT Development and Centimark. But the list of sponsors doesn’t stop with those three as it includes the Halifax-Northampton County Reentry Council, the Turning Point Workforce Development Board, Choanoke Area Development Association, the Fitts Foundation, and others.

The three graduates present — William Pritchett, Lawrence R. Thomas Jr., and Maurice Saddler Jr. — were ushered into the House of Mandate chapel on Roanoke Avenue to the sounds of Pomp & Circumstance. The fourth graduate — Da’qual Clark — was not present.

“It’s a great day of success,” said Dr. Orin Perry, pastor of the church and chair of the reentry council, “And it’s a great day of seeing those that have determination, those who have put their minds to being consistent and those that are resilient.”

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Frince Williams of the workforce development board and vice chair of the reentry council said, “We are so proud of our graduates this morning. These young men want a new life and a new change.”

Williams said the men are not being sent out on their own. There is a support system that will be with them. “When everything is said and done and they’re coming back home, we’re going to celebrate again.”

CADA Executive Director Christopher Moody said the men went through a hard training “and they are transitioning to employment. That’s what it’s all about — getting individuals employed.”

Moody said, however, “Going from this training to employment you have a huge responsibility. This is the first time we’ve done this and we’re going to do so many more. You guys have to step up and be mentors to the next individuals coming and that’s a huge responsibility to help them develop their skills.”

Clinton Williams, vice chair of the workforce development board, told the graduates, “You’re establishing hope for others who are coming up behind you.”

Cathay Scott, Halifax County Economic Development director, said today was a culmination of partners, individuals, and groups who had vision and faith. “We have a saying in Halifax County that working together works. If we all work together there is nothing we can’t accomplish. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Once you have success it breeds success.”

Trey Lewis, the northeast regional representative for United States Senator Thom Tillis, read a letter to the graduates from the senator and presented them with individual copies. “I’m happy to congratulate you on your graduation from the GAF Roofing Academy. You have completed an important step towards a successful future and I join your family and friends in recognizing this momentous occasion.”

The letter continued, “Hard work and determination are keys to success as you continue your path after graduation. I urge you to use the skills and knowledge that you have developed thus far as you reach for your goals. I wish you continued success in all of your endeavors.”

Bob Robinson, TNT plan room director, told the graduates that it was learned the Fitts Foundation wanted to ensure that housing was being developed with 3D technology.

When TNT received the award he and President Antonio Terrell decided to develop an opportunity to create a pipeline of local talent who learn the rudiments of 3D technology. “It’s not an easy feat to learn science, technology, engineering and math at another level on top of a house.”

The men graduating completed level one and received a job with the largest roofing company in the United States — Centimark. “When they start work they are starting work with a different resume. When they introduce themselves, they’re introducing a company. They’re articulating the same values that large corporations want, that they demand.”

Robinson said, “Centimark and GAF, they have an academy, yes, but what they agreed to do that’s different from anywhere else in the United States is that they wanted to develop men and women leading with their ability to maintain law-abiding behavior. What Centimark and GAF agreed to is they want these men who have their brand to go into the local schools and talk to middle-schoolers and high-schoolers about opportunities.”

In the next eight months, Robinson said, “You will hear about these men becoming a youth leadership chapter. All of the rudiments involved in understanding how to conduct business to represent your community, a tabernacle and your family, these men will be leading that charge.”

When other people come into the program, he said, “It’s not by accident. It’s going to be because they have joined the recruitment strategy that CADA has articulated. This is not going to go away.”

Terrell said, “You have an awesome opportunity and a heavy responsibility. There are collaboratively people who have put their efforts into seeing you submit willingly and take the opportunity to better your lives.”