MOUNT LAUREL, N.J. — Associated Builders and Contractors New Jersey (ABC-NJ) is taking bold steps to close the skilled labor gap through its U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Registered Gold Standard Apprenticeship Program, designed to prepare young workers for rewarding, debt-free careers in the trades while fueling the state’s economic growth.
“Why come out of college hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt when you can have a free education for a career that pays well, sets you up as an entrepreneur, and gives you valuable life skills,” asked Samantah DeAlmeida Roman, President and CEO of ABC-NJ.
Her message resonates with a growing number of New Jersey students seeking alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. As college tuition continues to rise, ABC-NJ’s model — combining classroom learning, paid on-the-job training, and industry mentorship — has become one of the most effective pathways to economic mobility and long-term success.
“The construction industry is very much in need of young talent right now because so many people from older generations have retired or are planning to retire in just a few years,” said Roman. “My goal is to help form the next generation of professionals through comprehensive class work, hands-on training, and workforce development.”
To strengthen inclusion in the trades, ABC-NJ works closely with partners such as the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ).
“The AACCNJ works in collaboration with ABC-NJ on various programs and initiatives to strengthen the competitiveness of New Jersey. Pursuing a career in the trades is one of those initiatives,” said John E. Harmon Sr., IOM, Founder, President, and CEO of the AACCNJ.
These collaborations are helping more young adults — particularly from underrepresented communities — gain access to career training that leads to financial stability and independence.
“It’s a great opportunity for young people to cash in where there’s presently a deficit in jobs,” Roman said. “The opportunities are plentiful.”
Since becoming a DOL-registered apprenticeship provider in 2019, ABC-NJ has expanded its offerings to 26 different crafts, making it one of the most comprehensive trade education programs in the country.
Apprentices may enter the program through an ABC-member employer or independently, later being matched with a sponsor company. In either case, students graduate without student debt, as their tuition and training costs are fully covered by their sponsoring employers.
This model of “earn while you learn” has proven essential in building a sustainable, highly skilled workforce ready to meet New Jersey’s construction and infrastructure demands.
As the largest ABC chapter in the nation, ABC-NJ now represents more than 1,600 member companies across the state. In addition to its apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs, the organization provides continuing education courses, safety certifications, professional licensing preparation, business development support, and mentorship programs.
“By investing in a student’s education, companies have a pathway to create employees who are safe and well-trained,” said Roman.
ABC-NJ also emphasizes long-term engagement. Graduates remain connected through alumni and professional programs, ensuring they continue to grow and contribute to the industry throughout their careers.
One of ABC-NJ’s most impactful initiatives is its outreach to middle and high school students through interactive workshops and summer trade camps. These programs introduce youth to the fundamentals of construction and the promise of a fulfilling career in the skilled trades.
“We start early because students haven’t been pushed on a path to college yet,” Roman explained. “And because we can talk to their parents to educate them on the benefits of a career in the trades.”
Once parents learn about starting salaries, career advancement opportunities, and the prestige of working in modern construction, their perception of the industry shifts dramatically.
“They realize it’s not just a fallback career,” Roman said. “It takes a special person to work in construction, someone who is willing to complete an apprenticeship program, but also someone who is smart, hardworking, and driven. Those are the type of people we want to have leading the industry.”
Through its partnerships, inclusive outreach, and innovative training programs, ABC-NJ continues to redefine what it means to build a career in construction. The organization’s efforts not only address the state’s workforce shortages but also create new opportunities for individuals to achieve financial independence and professional growth without the burden of student debt.
As New Jersey’s infrastructure investments grow and the demand for skilled workers rises, ABC-NJ stands at the forefront — building both structures and futures.
Originally reported by Associated Builders and Contractors New Jersey (ABC-NJ) in News Wire.
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