CEO Column | Goodwill Programs Offer Fast-Track to Success

Across the nation and within our own community, industries like construction and manufacturing are evolving rapidly and creating new opportunities for individuals seeking stable, meaningful careers. Yet, employers are struggling to find qualified candidates needed to support the growing demands, from new housing and infrastructure projects to industrial jobs that require a skilled workforce.

According to research from the Associated Builders and Contractors, the construction industry nationwide will need to add nearly 349,000 new workers in 2026. Manufacturing is experiencing similar strain, with the Manufacturing Institute estimating companies are spending nearly $32 billion annually on workforce training to keep pace with demand.

As a recognized workforce development partner in the region, Goodwill San Antonio is answering this urgent need for skilled workers by offering accelerated training classes known as “boot camps” in both manufacturing and construction. These three-week courses are offered at no-cost to participants and deliver a hands-on learning experience designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in high-demand industrial careers.

At Goodwill’s Academy, students enrolled within our Manufacturing Boot Camp earn industry-recognized certifications including OSHA-10 and SME’s Certified Manufacturing Associate credential, which focuses on essential manufacturing concepts and workplace readiness. At our Construction Boot Camp, students gain training in construction site safety, material handling, and OSHA-10 certification, while also becoming eligible to test for certification through the National Center for Construction Education and Research.

These programs are carefully designed to ensure student success. Like all Goodwill workforce development programs, there is no cost to participants, and they receive wraparound support services while enrolled in the programs. This includes soft skills training, assistance with transportation, access to equipment and support for immediate needs that may otherwise prevent someone from completing their education. Our goal is simple: ensure participants can focus on learning so they may complete their career pathway toward long-term employment and stability.

For many individuals, accelerated training programs create access to careers that may have once felt out of reach. These programs are made possible thanks to the generosity of our community, as donations and purchases made at our stores help fund community programs at our Goodwill Academy.

In a time when industries across the nation are searching for workers, our community has the opportunity to be part of the solution. By supporting Goodwill, you help build the skilled workforce our region urgently needs. Helping individuals gain the tools, confidence, and opportunity to build a brighter future through employment is exactly why Goodwill’s exist. If you or someone would like to learn more, visit us at www.goodwillsa.org/goodjob.

Carlos J. Contreras III is President & CEO at Goodwill San Antonio

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