Training in the Trades

Have you ever wanted to learn how to paint a house, hang drywall, get your OSHA 10 card, or break into the construction trades? If yes, this is your chance to build real skills that lead to real pay—and real independence.

Portland Housing has partnered with LiUNA (Laborers International Union of North America), a national labor union, to offer FREE training and certifications for people interested in the trades. Construction and skilled labor jobs have long been a pathway out of poverty and low-wage jobs, and that’s still true today—but getting started can be tough if you don’t already “know someone” in the industry.

LiUNA is also clear about access: they know women and people of color have often faced barriers entering the trades, and they’re working to make it easier for everyone to have the same shot at economic advancement. They connect workers to opportunities that pay an average of $30/hour. You do the math!

Training takes place at LiUNA’s campus in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, where you’ll spend 1–2 weeks in hands-on learning with instructors who have decades of experience. LiUNA will help you earn the credentials you need—and help connect you to employment afterward. 

Portland Housing is looking to send 10 men and women to Hopkinton for training in MARCH. The only requirement is a willingness to learn and a commitment to showing up.

If you want to save for a home, travel, pay for your children’s schooling, buy a new car, or build savings, start with earning more.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where will learners stay?
  • Learners will stay in dorms on site. Dormitory
• Is food included?
  • Yes. Meals are included and are served in the cafeteria near the dorms. Cafeteria
• How will I get there?
  • If needed, LiUNA and Portland Housing will provide transportation to and from Hopkinton.
• Do learners get paid or receive a stipend?
  • Yes. Learners will receive a $150 stipend while they are there.
• What is the training facility like?
  • The facility includes a gym, cafeteria, dorms, classrooms, and practice work sites. Gym Basketball Court
• Will there be hands-on training?
  • Yes. In addition to classroom learning, learners will take part in work site demonstrations.
• Who do I contact to learn more or sign up?
  • Reach out to Teyonda Hall for details and the next steps to enroll at thall@porthouse.org or call 207-221-8003 .

Looking to Make More Money in 2026?

Here are some of the work opportunities available through LiUNA.

High-Paying Work Opportunity: Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant (Spring 2026)

Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant will be closing down for a major cleaning in April 2026, and LiUNA is looking for workers who can start in March to help prepare for the shutdown. 

• Pay: $32.24/hour
• Bonus: $50 per day incentive
• Guaranteed overtime
• Training included to make sure you have the right job site certifications.

If your New Year’s goal is to make more money, this could be a great opportunity. Reach out now to learn more and get connected.

Contact David at 603-944-2603 or email him.
Contact Teyonda Hall by email  or call 207-221-8003

LiUNA Work Opportunity: Laborers Needed (Portland Project with Local 327)

LiUNA is looking for 7–10 laborers to join Local 327, in Portland, starting late February/early March. This is 40–50 hours per week, with possible weekend work. Laborers will support the carpenters installing drywall. The work includes unloading materials (drywall, insulation, metal studs), moving supplies to work areas, and clean-up/debris removal (including loading dumpsters). Strong workers may be kept on for general construction after the drywall phase, with work expected to continue through 2027–2028.

Requirements:

• OSHA 10 card (help is available to complete this requirement)
• Pass a drug test
• Able to lift ~50 lbs repeatedly throughout the day

Pay includes hourly wages plus premium benefits (including things like health insurance, pension/annuity, and other supports). Contact Teyonda Hall by email or call 207-221-8003 to get connected and