Trades Training Initiative
Introduction
The Trades Training Initiative endeavors to upskill existing workers and train new workers in high-wage careers in the building trades. Click to continue reading.
Introduction
Additionally, the EDC started a Youth Trades Training program in partnership with 4H, in an effort to introduce middle schoolers to the trades and their benefit in terms of financial security in our community.
These jobs offer high wages that can support our islands’ families and reduce the drain on social safety net programs. While service jobs offer only around $15.75 per hour (ESD data), construction and building trades can offer wages much more robust (average $31.53), and even higher for skilled trades business owners like plumbers.
For more information call the EDC office at 360-378-2906 or email Mickey von Dassow, program coordinator at info@sanjuansedc.org.
The EDC thanks San Juan County, the Raynier Institute and Foundation, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Washington State Dept. of Commerce, Peace Health, the Harvest Foundation, the Corbins & Orcas Kiwanis, the Building Industry Association of Washington, the San Juan Island Community Foundation, Islanders Bank, Heritage Bank, Island Market, Kings Market, Friday Harbor Market Place, Ace Hardware Friday Harbor, Browne’s Home Center, the Port of Lopez, the Rotary Club of the San Juan Islands, the Orcas Island Community Foundation, the Lopez Island Lions, the Friday Harbor Kiwanis, the United Way of San Juan County, and other individual donors for their support of various EDC trades programs and classes since 2017.
Upcoming Courses
More trades courses coming soon!
Keep up to date on future opportunities by subscribing to our newsletter and following us on Facebook!
Ongoing Courses
Mariner Training Initiative
For details about the Maritime Career Fair, please click here.
People who participate in the career fair on March 31st, 2022 or the Getting Started in Maritime Careers workshop (Jan 29th, 2022) will be invited to apply for financial support and coaching for the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) application process.
- An MMC is a requirement for many maritime jobs including on Washington State Ferries and other large vessels; however, an MMC does not guarantee employment.
- The entry level MMC does not require training or sea time.
- The MMC application process is complex and expensive ($500+). Our program will cover costs of these major expenses:
- The application fee for the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC; $125.25)
- The MMC application fee ($140)
- Up to $220 reimbursement for the Coast Guard physical and drug test.
- Our program will offer coaching to help participants through the MMC application process.
- Eligibility requirements: San Juan County residents who are 18 years old or older AND who participated in the workshop or career fair.
- Participation in the workshop or career fair does not guarantee acceptance into the MMC support program, nor does the MMC support program guarantee successful application for an MMC.
- Participants will be responsible for determining whether they can pass the Coast Guard physical and drug test.
- Participants will be responsible for travel associated with some steps.
For more information, contact us.
This program is made possible by the generosity of private donors, and grants from the Harvest Foundation, San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Raynier Institute and Foundation, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative and our Adopt a Future Mariner Program. The EDC offers special thanks to the Boden, Corbin, Levinson, Madsen, and VanHyning families, and the many other individual donors whose support was critical to launching training programs in 2021 and 2022.
The San Juan County Economic Development Council (EDC) strives to support small rural enterprises, and conduct projects to stimulate new job creation, strengthen the economic base for working families, and support overall quality of life for islanders.
Home Care Aide training, Ongoing 2021
Those seeking to enter health care careers, obtain side income while helping their neighbors, or boost personal care business are invited to get free Home Care Aide (HCA) training through a program offered in partnership with Cornerstone Healthcare Training.
Students will receive free training, financial support for costs of testing, and counseling to fit HCA certification into a plan for financial success.
For more information, see https://sanjuansedc.org/hca
Past Courses
Cabinet Making Basics
The EDC invites islanders seeking new careers to learn the basics of cabinet building in a class offered in partnership with The Fellow Shop, led by Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren, cabinetmakers. Jean and Nic have BFAs in Woodworking and Furniture Design from Rochester University, and extensive professional experience as cabinetmakers, boat builders, and finishers.
Students will learn the tried-and-true techniques of basic cabinet making as well as shop safety and etiquette. Cabinet anatomy, proper building materials, fasteners, door hanging, and all things cabinets will be covered in this course. Students will fabricate a small cabinet that they can take home. These skills are foundational for those seeking to enter the industry or add to their existing business.
Details: The classes will be held on Thursday evenings from March 7 to March 28, 2024, from 5:00 – 9:00pm at the Fellow Shop on San Juan Island. A $50.00 registration fee is required.
Limited spots available.
This course is open only to San Juan County residents at least 18 years old who plan to use woodworking skills for paying work. Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate that the course will help them enter a new career or seek employment.
Bookkeeping and Accounting Basics
Islanders interested in a career in Bookkeeping or Accounting are invited to join an introductory class offered by the EDC. Karol McLuen, CPA, will lead a course in Friday Harbor this February.
This course is intended to help people gain job skills and obtain economic stability. The course will focus on bookkeeping principles such as balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and ledger entries, and includes an introduction to accounting software. These skills are foundational for those seeking to understand bookkeeping and accounting and a first step in becoming a certified accountant. Practical application exercises will accompany the concepts and practices discussed in class.
Details: The course will take place on Wednesdays, February 7, 14, 21, and 28 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Skagit Valley College’s San Juan Center. A $50.00 registration fee is required. The course is open only to San Juan County residents, age 18 and over, who plan to use bookkeeping and accounting skills for paying work. Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate that the course will help them enter a new career or seek employment. Enrollment is capped at 10 students.
Furniture Making Basics
The EDC invites islanders seeking new careers to learn the basics of furniture building in a class offered in partnership with The Fellow Shop, led by Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren, cabinetmakers. Jean and Nic have BFAs in Woodworking and Furniture Design from Rochester University, and extensive professional experience as cabinetmakers, boat builders, and finishers.
The entry-level course will teach tool use and shop safety. Students will learn basic woodworking techniques and employ simple joinery to make their own solid wood mallet and stool. Instruction will be given on the appropriate power tools and hand tools necessary when building solid wood furniture. Sanding and finishing the final product will also be part of class. These skills are foundational for those seeking to enter many construction trades, including cabinetry and furniture making.
Details: The classes will be held on Thursday evenings from January 4 to 25, 2024 from 5:00 – 9:00pm at the Fellow Shop on San Juan Island. A $50.00 registration fee is required.
Deadline: Enrollment is open until 5:00pm on December 20.
This course is open only to San Juan County residents at least 18 years old who plan to use woodworking skills for paying work. Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate that the course will help them enter a new career or seek employment.
Youth Blacksmithing Basics
The EDC invites San Juan County youth to learn the basics of blacksmithing in a class offered in partnership with The Fellow Shop, led by Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren. Jean and Nic continue to share their extensive professional experience with the community, first as cabinetmakers and finishers, and now in metal arts. They are gifted in instruction and enthusiastic to share their knowledge with island youth.
The EDC partners with community members to introduce youth to a wide variety of skills and career options, inspire them to be curious, and empower them to pursue further training. This entry-level course will focus on safety while introducing basic forging tools and principles. Students will create a functional project to take home at the end of the workshop.
Details: Students may choose one of two workshops to attend:
Saturday, January 13, or Saturday, January 27.
Each session will be held from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Fellow Shop on San Juan Island. A $20.00 registration fee and parent attendance is required.
Deadline: Enrollment is open until 5:00 p.m. on December 20. Space is very limited.
This course is open only to San Juan County residents ages 10 to 18 years old who have an interest in metalwork and handcrafts.
Bookkeeping and Accounting Basics on Orcas Island
Islanders interested in a career in Bookkeeping or Accounting are invited to join an introductory class offered by the EDC. Jazmin Cicotti, of Avid Accounting, will lead a course on Orcas Island.
This course is intended to help people gain job skills and obtain economic stability. Instruction will focus on bookkeeping principles such as balance sheets, profit and loss statements, ledger entries, and includes an introduction to accounting software. These skills are foundational for those seeking to understand bookkeeping and accounting and a first step in becoming a certified accountant. Practical application exercises will accompany the concepts and practices discussed in class.
Details: Introductory Bookkeeping and Accounting is open only to San Juan County residents, age 18 and over, who plan to use bookkeeping and accounting skills for paying work. The program will be held November 4 and 11, 2023, in Eastsound. A $50 registration fee is required.
Intro to Woodworking on Orcas Island
Those seeking an introduction to woodworking are invited to gain hands-on training through a program offered by the EDC on Orcas Island. The focus of the course will be to complete a post-and-beam shed, but standard stick framing methods will also be introduced in a related project. Students will gain a general exposure to working with wood, including safety, care and use of tools, mortis and tenon joinery, teamwork, and the construction process.
The course will be taught by Bret McFarland and Jill Sherman. Brett and Jill have lived in the San Juans for 36 years. They built their own homes and have had various construction industry side jobs and projects. Brett has taught several EDC courses and is a high school teacher working in the wood shop and teaching applied and advanced physics. He plans to supply the wood for the shed project from his sawmill. Jill helped with the high school Tiny House project several years ago and ended up buying it. She is finishing the interior and working on a utility building.
Details: The course will be held on Orcas Island on Monday and Tuesday evenings, from April 10 to May 23. (Class will not be held April 17-18 due to spring break.) The class is free, except for a $100.00 registration fee. Applicants must be San Juan County residents who are 18 years or older and seeking paying work in the construction industry.
For questions or to apply, please contact the EDC’s Trades Training Coordinator, Marti McConnell, at (360) 378-2906, or marti@sandjuansedc.org.
Masonry Basics
Back by popular demand, the EDC of San Juan County is offering a hands-on Masonry Basics class. This one-day course will be taught by Dave Koch, retired masonry contractor, on Saturday April 29th, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on San Juan Island.
Dave Koch is an excellent instructor with three decades of masonry experience. The class is designed for anyone seeking jobs or building careers that involve working with brick, stone, tile, or other masonry components. The course will focus on bricklaying, the foundational masonry skills, and introduce tools and skills involved in other areas of masonry, such as stonework.
Applicants must be 18 years old or older, residents of San Juan County, and participating in the course to gain work skills. The deadline to apply is April 13th and enrollment is limited. There is a $50 registration fee.
For more information or to apply, email the EDC Trades Coordinator at marti@sanjuansedc.org or call (360) 378-2906.
This course is made possible by the Building Industry Association of Washington, the Raynier Institute and Foundation, San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Harvest Foundation, San Juan Island Community Foundation, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative.
Woodworking Basics
Back by popular demand, the EDC invites islanders seeking new careers to learn Woodworking Basics in a class offered in partnership with The Fellow Shop.
Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren, cabinetmakers, will be teaching an introduction to woodworking, on Thursday evenings from March 2 to March 23, from 5:00 – 9:00pm at the Fellow Shop on San Juan Island.
This course is intended to help people gain job skills and obtain economic stability. The course will teach tool use and safety and basic woodworking skills during a hands-on building project. These skills are foundational for those seeking to enter many trades, from construction to furniture making.
The program will be free except for a $50.00 registration fee, and is open only to San Juan County residents at least 18 years old who plan to use woodworking skills for paying work. Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate that the course will help them enter a new career or seek employment.
Instructors Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren have BFAs in Woodworking and Furniture Design from Rochester University, and extensive professional experience as cabinetmakers, boat builders, and finishers.
To register, or for more information, contact the EDC’s trades training coordinator at marti@sanjuansedc.org or (360) 378-2906.
This course is made possible by the San Juan Island Community Foundation, San Juan County, the Harvest Foundation, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative, including the United Way of San Juan County, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Washington State Dept. of Commerce, and other donors.
Bookkeeping and Accounting Basics
Islanders interested in a career in Bookkeeping or Accounting are invited to join an introductory class offered by the EDC. Karol McLuen, CPA, will lead a course in late February and early March, on selected Saturdays.
This course is intended to help people gain job skills and obtain economic stability. The course will focus on bookkeeping principles such as balance sheets, profit and loss statements, ledger entries, and includes an introduction to accounting software.
These skills are foundational for those seeking to understand bookkeeping and accounting and a first step in becoming a certified accountant. Practical application exercises will accompany the concepts and practices discussed in class.
The program is free except for a $50.00 registration fee, and is open only to San Juan County residents, age 18 and over, who plan to use bookkeeping and accounting skills for paying work. Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate that the course will help them enter a new career or seek employment. Enrollment is capped at 10 students.
The course will take place in Friday Harbor on the following Saturdays: February 25, March 11, and March 25, 2023, from 9:00am to 1:00pm.
To register, or for more information, contact the EDC’s trades training coordinator at marti@sanjuansedc.org or (360) 378-2906.
Intro to Welding
Learn how to weld!
(Traducción al español: EDC_Curso_de_Introducción_a_la_Soldadura)
The EDC is offering an Introduction to Welding course as part of their Trades Training Initiative. This course is open to participants from San Juan County, ages 18 and over, who plan to use welding skills for paying work.
The upcoming course will provide an overview of basic welding concepts and techniques, tools, and shop safety. Students will gain hands-on experience in mig, tig, and stick welding. Additional training and certification support may be available to those who complete this course.
Details: The course will be held Tuesdays, November 29, December 6, and December 13, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm in Friday Harbor. The course is free except for a $50.00 registration fee, which includes all welding materials, as well as dedicated helmet and gloves. Space is limited.
Woodworking Basics
Islanders seeking new careers are invited to learn Woodworking Basics in a class offered by the EDC!
Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren, cabinetmakers, will be teaching an introduction to woodworking, on Wednesday evenings from October 12 to November 2, from 5:00 – 9:00pm at the Fellow Shop on San Juan Island.
This course is intended to help people gain job skills and obtain economic stability. The course will teach tool use and safety, and other woodworking skills. These skills are foundational for those seeking to enter many trades, from construction to furniture making.
The program will be free except for a $50.00 registration fee, and is open only to San Juan County residents who plan to use woodworking skills for paying work. Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate that the course will help them enter a new career or seek employment. Enrollment is capped at 6 students. Applicants must be 18 or over.
Instructors Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren have BFAs in Woodworking and Furniture Design from Rochester University, and extensive professional experience as cabinetmakers, boat builders, and finishers.
THIS CLASS IS FULL. To be added to the waitlist, please contact the EDC’s Trades Programs Coordinator at marti@sanjuansedc.org.
This course is made possible by the San Juan Island Community Foundation, San Juan County, the Harvest Foundation, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative, including the United Way of San Juan County, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Washington State Dept. of Commerce, and other donors.
EDC Business Management and Leadership Course
Are you a prospective or current business owner looking to step up your business management skills?
The EDC is offering a Business Management and Leadership Course this fall for all industries, including hospitality, restaurant, and construction. This course is open to participants from San Juan County, ages 18 and over, who are planning to start a business or who seek to develop or refresh their skills.
The upcoming course will provide insight into topics such as workforce development, company assessment, bookkeeping principles, the customer experience, and more. A panel of instructors will present information to help entrepreneurs and managers navigate everyday challenges of small business operations, create strategies for change, and plan for future growth. This interactive course will encourage students to network and learn from each other beyond the duration of the class.
Seminars in this series include:
HR for Business Management with Bev Carlton
Storytelling for Small Business with Deborah Hoskinson
Creating a Positive Customer Experience with Steve Carlton
Success Through Clarity with Jeff Fitts
Bookkeeping Principals with Karol McLuen
Digital Marketing with Val Curtis
Details: The seminars will meet weekly on Wednesdays from 6:00-8:00 pm from September 14 to November 9, 2022. The brown bag lunch series on digital marketing will be held Thursdays from 12:15-1:15 pm. Classes will be held in Friday Harbor, but remote learning options are available. Participants that attend all sessions will receive a certificate of completion. Only 10 spots available. Required registration fee of $100.
For more information or to register, please contact the EDC’s Trades Training Coordinator, Marti McConnell, at (360) 378-2906, or marti@sanjuansedc.org.
In Development
In Development
Programs we are working on organizing for 2022 include:
- Introduction to Woodworking (coming soon)
- Merchant Marine Training
- Plumbing
- Tiny Home Building
- Heavy Equipment Operator: Introduction
- Heavy Equipment Operator: In Depth
- CDL Training
- Auto Repair
- Composites/Fiberglass Certification
- Computer Aided Design (CAD)
- Carpentry Basics
- Upholstery 101
- Masonry
- Flagger Certification Course
Introduction to Masonry
Back by popular demand! We are offering a second hands-on Masonry Basics class. This one-day course will be taught by Dave Koch, retired masonry contractor, on Saturday April 9th, 2022, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on San Juan Island.
Dave Koch is an excellent instructor with three decades of masonry experience. The class is designed for anyone seeking jobs or building careers that involve working with brick, stone, tile, or other masonry components. The course will focus on bricklaying and mortar, the foundational masonry skills, and introduce tools and skills involved in other areas of masonry, such as stonework.
Applicants must be 18 years old or older, residents of San Juan County, and participating in the course to gain work skills. The deadline to apply is April 4th and enrollment is limited. There is a $20 registration fee.
To apply, please visit the EDC’s website at www.sanjuansedc.org/masonry2022. For more information, email the EDC Trades Coordinator at mickey@sanjuansedc.org.
This course is made possible by the Building Industry Association of Washington, the Raynier Institute and Foundation, San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, Browne’s Home Center, the Harvest Foundation, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative.
The San Juan County Economic Development Council (EDC) strives to support small rural enterprises, and conduct projects to stimulate new job creation, strengthen the economic base for working families, and support overall quality of life for islanders.
Youth Trades
The Economic Development Council (EDC), in partnership with WSU Extension’s San Juan County 4-H program, is creating activities for children to introduce them to trades. These activities are offered through the 4-H program. For more information, click here.
Related Programs
Related Programs
While we were limited to socially distanced activities, we created a series of Trades Talks to help people learn about trades careers and training pathways. We have a library of recorded presentations and interviews.
We also held a series of events to encourage the development of a makerspace system that can support innovation, entrepreneurship, and education in San Juan County.
Mariner Training Initiative
People seeking a new career are invited to the EDC’s new program on mariner workforce development.
This program consists of two parts:
- Workshop: On Jan. 29th, 2022, we invite people to a one-day, hands-on class, Getting Started in Maritime Careers for up to 15 people.
- Financial support and coaching for the Merchant Mariner Credential application process for up to 15 people.
Participation in the workshop is a requirement for enrollment in the financial support program, but it does not guarantee either an offer of financial support or a successful MMC application.
- What’s covered:
- Maritime career options and pathways including ferries, cargo ships, cruise ships, tugs, research vessels, and dredges.
- Skills expected of mariners, such as vessel familiarity, vessel operations and maintenance, water survival skills, firefighting basics, galley, and others.
- Who it is for: anyone interested in maritime careers.
- Where is it: at Seafarers Worldwide in Anacortes WA.
- When is it: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday Jan. 29th.
- Getting there and away: Arrival from all ferry-served islands will be on the 8:40 AM and departure will be on the 5:20 PM ferry (WSF’s alternate schedule: departure at 7:40 PM). The EDC will arrange for ground transportation in Anacortes.
- Eligibility: San Juan County residents who are 18 years old or older and considering maritime careers.
- Participants in the workshop may apply for financial support and coaching to for the MMC application process.
- An MMC is a requirement for many maritime jobs including on Washington State Ferries and other large vessels; however, an MMC does not guarantee employment.
- The entry level MMC does not require training or sea time.
- The MMC application process is complex and expensive ($500+). Our program will cover costs of these major expenses:
- The application fee for the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC; $125.25)
- The MMC application fee ($140)
- Up to $220 reimbursement for the Coast Guard physical and drug test.
- Our program will offer coaching to help participants through the MMC application process.
- Eligibility requirements: San Juan County residents who are 18 years old or older AND who participated in the workshop.
- Participation in the workshop does not guarantee acceptance into the MMC support program, nor does the MMC support program guarantee successful application for an MMC.
- Participants will be responsible for determining whether they can pass the Coast Guard physical and drug test.
- Participants will be responsible for travel associated with some steps.
To apply: contact mickey@sanjuansedc.org for an application form. There is a registration fee of $20, which applicants can pay below.
After submitting your application for the workshop, you can pay your registration fee with the button below. You can pay with credit card if you do not have a PayPal account.
This program is made possible by the generosity of private donors, and grants from the Harvest Foundation, San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Raynier Institute and Foundation, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative and our Adopt a Future Mariner Program. The EDC offers special thanks to the Boden, Corbin, Levinson, Madsen, and VanHyning families, and the many other individual donors whose support was critical to launching training programs in 2021 and 2022.
The San Juan County Economic Development Council (EDC) strives to support small rural enterprises, and conduct projects to stimulate new job creation, strengthen the economic base for working families, and support overall quality of life for islanders.
Intro to Woodworking, Jan 22 to Feb 12th
People seeking job skills or career inspiration are invited to a free, hands-on woodworking course, offered by the Economic Development Council of San Juan County (EDC). This four-session course, Introduction to Woodworking, will be taught by Kristen Ryan, the woodworking instructor at Lopez Island High School.
When:
Jan. 22nd through Feb 12th, 2022, Saturdays at 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM. There will be a lunch break.
Where:
The Lopez Island High School woodworking classroom.
Application process:
- Enrollment is capped at 10 students.
- Applicants must be 18 or over.
- Applicants must be San Juan County residents.
- To apply: contact mickey@sanjuansedc.org for an application form BEFORE Jan. 11th.
- Completed applications received by Jan 13th will be reviewed; however, the order of receipt will be considered.
Details:
Kristen Ryan has been developing the woodworking program at Lopez Island High School since 2019. A project based curriculum has been designed for anyone seeking jobs or developing careers that may involve working with wood, whether in construction, manufacturing, or elsewhere.
The course will introduce foundational skills including measurement, safety, tool use, assembly, and wood finishing. Students will create picnic tables and benches which will be donated to the Lopez Island School Garden Program.
The venue for this course has been generously provided by Lopez Island School District, and materials were kindly donated by Jones Family Farm and Sunset Building Supply. This course is made possible by San Juan County, the Harvest Foundation, the Building Industry Association of Washington, the Raynier Institute and Foundation, the Lopez Lions, and other grant funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiatives. The EDC offers special thanks to the Boden, Corbin, Levinson, and VanHyning families, and the many other individual donors whose support was critical to launching training programs in 2021 and 2022.
Introduction to Masonry
People seeking new job skills or career inspiration are invited to a free, hands-on introduction to masonry, offered by the Economic Development Council of San Juan County (EDC). The one-day course will be taught by Dave Koch, retired masonry contractor, on Saturday Dec. 4th, 2021, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Friday Harbor, WA.
To request an application form, email mickey@sanjuansedc.org before Nov. 29th.
Dave Koch has three decades of masonry experience and is an excellent teacher. The hands-on curriculum has been designed for anyone seeking jobs or developing careers that may involve working with brick, stone, tile, or other masonry components.
The EDC anticipates this course will be particularly useful for people in or entering the construction industry. The course will focus on bricklaying and mortar, the foundational masonry skills, and introduce tools and skills involved in other areas of masonry, such as stonework.
Applicants must be 18 years old or older, residents of San Juan County, and participating in the course to gain work skills. The deadline to apply is November 29th and enrollment is limited.
This course is made possible by the Building Industry Association of Washington, Browne’s Home Center, the Harvest Foundation, San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative.
The San Juan County Economic Development Council (EDC) strives to support small rural enterprises, and conduct projects to stimulate new job creation, strengthen the economic base for working families, and support overall quality of life for islanders.
Tree Worker Basics
People who want to make a living working with trees or forests are invited to a free hands-on, outdoor course offered by the San Juan County Economic Development Council (EDC). The course will be taught by Carson Sprenger, proprietor of Rain Shadow Consulting at their Orcas Island facilities, Saturdays Oct. 30th – Nov. 20th, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The course is sponsored by a generous donation from the family of Walt Corbin and from the Kiwanis Club of Orcas Island.
To apply, email mickey@sanjuansedc.org before Oct. 19th.
Carson Sprenger has over 20 years of experience working in the forests of the San Juan Islands. The hands-on curriculum has been designed for job-seekers and career changers interested in working in tree care/tree service, forestry, or landscaping. These jobs remain in high demand in our rural communities.
The course will prepare students for an entry level arborist position and is not intended for D.I.Y. home repairs. The class will cover tools of the trades, including ropes; keeping trees and forests healthy; safety; and the ins-and-outs of working in the industry. Students will not use chainsaws or fell trees in this class. Applicants must be 18 years old or older and residents of San Juan County. The deadline to apply is October 1519th, and space is limited.
- Tree worker safety and how to avoid common injuries
- WA Labor & Industries laws and employer responsibilities for tree workers
- Tree and plant health (keep trees happy and thriving!)
- Common tree species and basic tree identification
- Tree physiology and how trees respond to injury
- Tools of the trade (PPE, ropes, rigging systems, climbing systems, aerial lifts, hand saws, chain saws [see note below], chippers, tree service trucks)
- Working with rope: knots to know and basic splicing
- Specialized rigging systems
- Proper pruning techniques (how to do it right!)
- Tree felling techniques [see note below]
- Care and feeding of your chainsaw [see note below]
- Other common tool maintenance
- Physical demands of working in the tree care trades
- Industry organizations and certification (from tree worker to certified arborist)
Students will not fell trees or use chainsaws in the EDC course.
For more information or to apply, email the EDC Trades Coordinator at mickey@sanjuansedc.org.
The EDC thanks Walt Corbin, his wife Gayle, and their family, for their support of skills training to help people obtain fulfilling work and their support of the environment. The EDC hopes this course honors Mr. Corbin’s legacy.
The EDC’s Trades Education Initiative is additionally supported by San Juan County, the Harvest Foundation, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative, including the United Way of San Juan County, the Washington State Dept. of Commerce, and other donors and grantors.
The San Juan County Economic Development Council (EDC) strives to support small rural enterprises, and conduct projects to stimulate new job creation, strengthen the economic base for working families, and support overall quality of life for islanders
Running Construction Projects
Recordings of the course are available on this YouTube playlist.
Wherever you are in your career, this course will help you. Those new to construction will gain conceptual skills to go further. Seasoned contractors will gain skills to run their businesses more efficiently. Skills learned will open opportunities in construction administration and management for those who cannot take on physically demanding roles in the industry.
Topics will include reading plans (to ensure a solid foundation for those students new to construction); the construction team, including vendors, and the supply chain; scheduling, budgeting, and communications; and residential and community construction projects.
Questions? Contact: mickey@sanjuansedc.org.
Key info:
- Instructors will be Sandy Bishop (Executive Director, Lopez Community Land Trust) and Pete Kilpatrick (former owner of Ravenhill Construction).
- The course is offered FREE thanks to the funders of the EDC’s trades program and the generosity of the instructors.
- The course will run Tues. Oct. 19th through Tues. Nov. 16th, at 5:30 to 7:00 PM over Zoom.
- This class is for students seeking skills for paying work related to construction.
- Applicants must be San Juan County residents.
- Applicants must be 18 years old or older.
- Classes may be recorded and posted online at the instructors’ discretion.
- The application deadline is Oct. 11th.
This course is offered by the Economic Development Council (EDC), in partnership with the Lopez Community Land Trust. This course is made possible by the generosity of the funders of the EDC’s programs, in particular San Juan County, the Building Industry Association of Washington, the Harvest Foundation, and other grantors and donors. The instructors have generously agreed to donate their time.
Woodworking Basics, July 7th-28th, 2021
Islanders seeking new careers are invited to learn Woodworking Basics in a free class offered by the Economic Development Council (EDC). Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren, cabinetmakers, will be teaching an introduction to woodworking.
When:
July 7th through 28th, on Wednesday evenings, at 5:00 – 9:00 PM. There will be breaks to eat.
Where:
The Fellow Shop, 322 Daniel Ln. Unit B, Friday Harbor, WA 98250.
Application process:
- Enrollment is capped at 7 students.
- Applicants must be 18 or over.
- Applicants must be San Juan County residents.
- To apply:
- Fill out the application form and send to mickey@sanjuansedc.org.
- Pay the reimbursable $50 registration fee by credit card (using the payment button below) or by check. Fee will be reimbursed if applicant is not admitted to the course; fee is reimbursable upon request after successful course completion.
Details:
Instructors Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren have BFAs in Woodworking and Furniture Design from Rochester University, and extensive professional experience as cabinetmakers, boat builders, and finishers.
This course is intended to help people gain job skills and obtain economic stability. This course will teach tool use and safety, among other woodworking skills. These skills are foundational for those seeking to enter many trades, from construction to furniture making.
This program will be free, except for a reimbursable application fee, and is open to San Juan County residents who plan to use woodworking skills for paying work.
Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate that the course will help them enter a new career or seek employment.
To learn more, contact the EDC at mickey@sanjuansedc.org.
This course is made possible by the San Juan Island Community Foundation, San Juan County, the Harvest Foundation, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative, including the United Way of San Juan County, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Washington State Dept. of Commerce, and other donors. To support EDC trades programs, please visit www.sanjuansedc.org/donate.
Work as a Construction Trainer, June 22, 2021
Are you interested in building the next generation of tradespeople? Rich Jones, Co-Owner/Training Director of South Sound Residential LLC, and Al Audette, Education and Workforce Development Director at the BIAW, will speak with attendees about how to get started and thrive in a career training workers in the construction and building trades. The seminar is Tuesday June 22nd at 5:00PM.
Trainers are needed to support businesses’ workforce development needs in the construction industry. Attendees will learn about the market for construction trainers, opportunities for employment or entrepreneurship, and requirements to be a trainer. Attendees are encouraged to come with questions.
Event is 5:00 to 6:00 PM on Tuesday, June 22nd. Event will be over Zoom. Click HERE to register.
Introduction to Computer Aided Design
Recordings are available here: Computer Aided Design – YouTube. For the Fusion 360 files and tutorial PDFs, see this online course: https://help.autodesk.com/view/fusion360/ENU/courses/AP-C-INTRO-3D-MODELING .
Original announcement:
Those seeking to enter a new career or boost their jobs skills are invited to learn Computer Aided Design (CAD) in a free, online class offered by the Economic Development Council (EDC). Brett Paul, Staff Engineer at Luxel, will be teaching a five-week introduction to CAD, May 18th through June 15th, on Tuesday evenings, at 7:00 – 8:30 PM, over Zoom.
The EDC’s goal in offering this course is to help county residents gain job skills and obtain economic stability. CAD is used in many industries, such as manufacturing and construction, as well as by scientific, craft, and arts businesses.
This course focuses on using CAD for manufacturing, themed on 3D printing, but will be of value to those seeking to use CAD in other industries or for use with other fabrication techniques.
Students will gain:
- Familiarity with CAD software (Fusion360; free version)
- Understanding of parametric CAD workflows
- Ability to create technical drawings
- Understanding of how to produce assemblies of a multi-component system
- A general understanding of design for various methods of fabrication
- Ability to properly design for additive manufacturing
This program will be free except for a $25 registration fee which is refundable upon successful course completion. The fee will be refunded to applicants for who are not admitted. The course will use the free version of Fusion 360 for personal/hobby use (not the free trial).
The course is open to San Juan County residents interested in using CAD in their work. Preference will be given to applicants who want to enter a new career, seek employment, or grow their own business. Applicants must be 18 or over.
To learn more, contact the EDC at mickey@sanjuansedc.org. …
This course is made possible by the generosity of funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative, including the Raynier Institute and Foundation, San Juan County, the Lopez Island Lions Club, the United Way of San Juan County, the Port of Lopez, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Washington State Dept. of Commerce, and other donors. To support EDC trades programs, please visit consider donating.
Tree Worker Basics Course
In partnership with Rain Shadow Consulting, the Economic Development Council (EDC) will offer a free 6-week training in tree work and arboriculture, beginning December 5th. This course is sponsored by Walt Corbin and the Kiwanis Club of Orcas.
The course will be taught at the Rain Shadow Consulting office by Carson Sprenger, who has over 20 years of experience working in the forests of the San Juan Islands. This program is intended to benefit participating students as well as local companies in need of skilled employees. The hands-on curriculum has been designed for students and career changers interested in working in the tree care/tree service and landscaping trades. The class will cover:
- Tree worker safety and how to avoid common injuries
- WA Labor & Industries laws and employer responsibilities for tree workers
- Tools of the trade (PPE, ropes, rigging systems, climbing systems, aerial lifts, hand saws, chain saws, chippers, tree service trucks)
- Proper pruning techniques (how to do it right!)
- Tree felling techniques and specialized rigging systems
- Care and feeding of your chainsaw and other common tool maintenance
- Working with rope: knots to know and basic splicing
- Tree and plant health (keep trees happy and thriving!)
- Common tree species and basic tree identification
- Tree physiology and how trees respond to injury
- Physical demands of working in the tree care trades
- Industry organizations and certification (from tree worker to certified arborist)
The class will have at least two guest speakers from local tree care companies and will end with a Saturday field day for some hands-on learning and equipment demonstrations. No tree felling or chainsaw use will be part of this class. The course will prepare students for an entry level arborist position.
This course is intended as a career introduction; not for D.I.Y. home repairs.
This six-week course will run from 5:30-7:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays from December 5th 2019 through January 23rd 2020, with a break for the holidays from December 19th-January 7th, and one on-site day on Saturday, February 1st. This course is free to residents of San Juan County, except for a filing fee of $10.
This program is sponsored by Walt Corbin and the Kiwanis Club of Orcas Island. The EDC’s Trades Education Initiative is additionally supported by San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, San Juan Island School District, Heritage Bank, and Islanders Bank.
Electrical Basics Course, San Juan Island, October 31-December 12, 2019
The Economic Development Council (EDC) will offer free training in electrical basics this fall, sponsored by the San Juan Island Community Foundation, Browne’s Home Center, Ace Hardware, and Brown’s Heating and Refrigeration.
The course will be taught at Friday Harbor High School by Brent Huntington, a long-time electrician and plumber on San Juan Island. The program is intended to benefit participating students as well as local companies in need of skilled employees. The hands-on curriculum is designed for students and career changers, and includes safety, standards, and more. This course is free to residents of San Juan County, except for a filing fee of $10.
This course is intended as a career introduction; not for D.I.Y. home repairs.
Water System Operator Job Training Course
Water System Operator Job Training Course*
Eastsound Water and the San Juan Economic Development Council are offering an introductory course for persons interested in learning about a career as a Certified Water System Operator. The course is being taught by Eastsound Water on Orcas Island. Topics to be covered will include such topics as,
-
- How water systems work
- What water system operators do
- Hands on skills like “hot tapping” a water main, performing water quality tests, making leak repairs.
- Working with Surface Water and Ground Water.
- Distribution system management.
- Tours of multiple Orcas Water systems.
- Water Operator Certification testing requirements.
- Basic Water System Operator math.
There is a nation-wide shortage of water system operators. Orcas Island, and other San Juan Islands are experiencing this shortage. Working at a water system can provide stable, full time employment with reasonable benefits, and opportunities for career advancement to both men and women.
This course is FREE for residents of San Juan County and is specifically designed to help community members learn more about working in this profession and provide them a “leg up” if they wish to apply for work with a number of local water systems seeking operators. The course is one of series of trades-focused trainings being offered through the San Juan Economic Development Council. Financial sponsors include Eastsound Water, Doe Bay Water, and Olga Water. Eastsound Water is also offering a paid internship to one of the participants that complete this class.
The course will run from Mid September through Mid November, meeting 2 evenings a week, with some Saturday field trips to local water systems. The course is being taught by 30 year water system manager Ted Wixom. Space is limited, and advanced registration is required. There is a $10 filing fee, but no other course expenses. Contact Eastsound Water’s General Manager with course questions and for more information on registration call the EDC office at 360-378-2906.
The course has started and registration is closed.
*Text from: Eastsound Water
Construction Welding (May-June, 2019)
The Economic Development Council (EDC) partnered with Skagit Valley College to offer free training in Construction Welding basics at SVC’s Mount Vernon campus this May. This latest class in the EDC’s Trades Education Initiative was sponsored by the Washington State Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund, the Washington State Department of Commerce, and Skagit Valley College.
Classes offered as part of Trades Education Initiative are intended for young people and career-changers looking for a path into the trades. Construction Welding will be taught by Skagit Valley instructors and covered shielded metal arc welding with an emphasis on safety, as well as what to expect from a career path in this trade. The course was intended to benefit participating students as well as local employers. This course was 33 hours long and counted for 2 college credits. This class was free to residents of San Juan County, except for a filing fee of $10.
This 6-week course ran on Saturdays from May 11th to June 15th of 2019. Transportation to and from Skagit Valley College was provided. There was no cost for the training, however preregistration and a $10 filing fee were required. This class is now completed.
For more information call the EDC office at 360-378-2906 or email the EDC Trades Coordinator at glenn@sanjuansedc.org.
This program is sponsored by the Washington State Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund and the Washington State Department of Commerce, and Skagit Valley College. The EDC’s Trades Education Initiative is additionally supported by San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, San Juan Island School District, Heritage Bank, and Islanders Bank.
The Economic Development Council (EDC) strives to strengthen and diversify the economy of San Juan County. We believe a strong economy builds a strong community.
Low Voltage/Fiber Optics, San Juan Island, April 3rd 2019
The Economic Development Council (EDC) partnered with Rock Island to offer free training in low voltage wiring and fiber optic installation at Friday Harbor High School this April. This recent class in the EDC’s Trades Education Initiative was sponsored by the Washington State Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund, the Washington State Department of Commerce, Rock Island, and the San Juan Island School District.
The course was taught by Rock Island Staff and covered essential concepts in fiber optic design and installation, modern home networks, practical wiring, and what to expect from a career path in this trade.
The curriculum included lectures, safety/tool usage demonstrations, field trips, and hands-on projects. All materials and tools were provided. This program was intended for young people and career-changers considering a career in the trades. The course will benefit participating students as well as local employers. This class was free to residents of San Juan County, except for a filing fee of $10.
This course was intended as a career introduction, and was not appropriate for D.I.Y. home repairs.
The 5-week course ran from 4:00-6:00 PM Mondays and Wednesdays from April 3rd through May 8th of 2019.
Construction Basics, Lopez Island, March 26th 2019
The Economic Development Council (EDC) offered free training in construction basics at Lopez Island High School this March, sponsored by the Washington State Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund, the Washington State Department of Commerce, and by the Lopez Community Land Trust.
The course was taught by Paul Henriksen, and covered basic construction skills and career paths in the trade. The curriculum included lectures, safety/tool use demonstrations, and a hands-on building project. All materials and tools were provided. This program was intended for young people and career-changers considering a career in the trades. The course will benefit participating students as well as local construction companies in need of skilled employees. This class was free to residents of San Juan County, except for a filing fee of $10.
This course was intended as a career introduction; not for D.I.Y. home repairs.
The 8-week course ran from 5:30-7:30 PM Tuesdays and Thursdays from March 26th through May 16th of 2019. The deadline to apply was Tuesday, March 19th.
For more information call the EDC office at 360-378-2906 or email EDC Trades Coordinator at glenn@sanjuansedc.org.
This program is sponsored by the Washington State Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund and by the Washington State Department of Commerce, and by the Lopez Community Land Trust. The EDC’s Trades Education Initiative is additionally supported by San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, San Juan Island School District, Heritage Bank, and Islanders Bank.
HVAC Basics Course, San Juan Island, March 5 2019
The Economic Development Council (EDC) offered free training in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installation and repair basics this March, sponsored by the Washington State Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund and by the Washington State Department of Commerce.
The course was taught at Friday Harbor High School by Kevin McCullough of San Juan Heating. The program was intended to benefit participating students as well as local companies in need of skilled employees. The hands-on curriculum was designed for students and career changers, and included safety, standards, and more. This course was free to residents of San Juan County, except for a filing fee of $10.
This course was intended as a career introduction; not for D.I.Y. home repairs.
The five-week course ran from 4:00-6:00 pm Tuesdays and Thursdays from March 5th through April 4th of 2019.
For more information call the EDC office at 360-378-2906 or email EDC Trades Coordinator at glenn@sanjuansedc.org.
This program is sponsored by the Washington State Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund and by the Washington State Department of Commerce, and by San Juan Heating. The EDC’s Trades Education Initiative is additionally supported by San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, San Juan Island School District, Heritage Bank, and Islanders Bank.
Construction Basics, Fall 2018
The Economic Development Council (EDC) provided training in construction basics at Friday Harbor High School. The curriculum was designed for students and career changers, and included core construction skills, tool usage, safety, career and job information, and more. The course began November 5th at 3:30p at the FHHS STEM center and ran Mondays and Wednesdays for 8 weeks. There was no cost for this training, although pre-registration and a $10 filing fee were required.
For more infomation, email glenn@sanjuansedc.org or call the office at 360-378-2906.
The training was taught at the Friday Harbor High School STEM Center by Ravenhill carpenter Mike Murphy, who brought decades of carpentry and construction experience to the role. Qualifying participants received assistance in job placement with building companies throughout San Juan County.
This program was sponsored by the San Juan Island Community Foundation, Ravenhill Construction, the San Juan Island School District, Green Man Landscape & Design, and Friday Harbor Ace Hardware. The EDC’s Trades Education Initiative is additionally sponsored by San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, the San Juan Island School District, Heritage Bank, and Islanders Bank.
Free Electrical Basics course
Free Electrical Basics course – Completed
The Economic Development Council (EDC) offered free training in electrical basics this spring, funded by the Orcas Island Community Foundation, Orcas Kiwanis, Islanders Bank and Heritage Bank.
The EDC thanks our partners in the trades education initiative: the Orcas Island Community Foundation, Orcas Kiwanis, San Juan Propane, San Juan County Builders Association, San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, Islanders Bank, Heritage Bank, Island Excavating and Orcas Excavators.
Construction Basics Training
Construction Basics Training – Completed
The Economic Development Council (EDC) currently offered free training in construction basics this past winter (2017), funded by the Orcas Island Community Foundation, Orcas Kiwanis, Islanders Bank, the San Juan County Builders’ Association, Orcas Excavators and Island Excavating.
The course was taught at Orcas Island High School by Vocational and Woodworking Instructor Brett McFarland. The training was geared for high school students and young adults, and included core construction skills, tool usage, safety, and more. Instruction was open and free to all participants from San Juan County.
The training ran after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays from November 28, 2017, through February 1st, 2018, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. (to accommodate after-school travel from Lopez and San Juan Islands). There was no cost for the course; a $10 filing fee was required with application.
The EDC thanks our partners in this initiative: the Orcas Island Community Foundation, Orcas Kiwanis, San Juan County Builders Association, San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, Islanders Bank, Heritage Bank, Island Excavating, Orcas Excavators.
Marine Maintenance Training
Marine Maintenance Training – Completed
The Economic Development Council (EDC) completed marine tech training at Skagit Valley College’s Marine Center in Anacortes. This program took place during the Spring 2017 and Summer 2017 quarters. The EDC thanks our partners in this initiative: Commerce, San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, Skagit Valley College, the Port of Friday Harbor, Islanders Bank, the Northwest Workforce Council, Heritage Bank, and area marine businesses.
Thank you to our funders!
2021 Trades Training Initiative funders included:
Individuals: the Corbin, Boden, Levinson, Madsen, and Van Hyning families, and several anonymous donors.
Foundations, non-profits, and service organizations: PeaceHealth, the Harvest Foundation, Raynier Institute and Foundation, Building Industry Association of Washington, San Juan Island Community Foundation, the United Way of San Juan County, the Lopez Lions, Friday Harbor Kiwanis, Orcas Kiwanis.
Government: Washington State Dept. of Commerce, San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Port of Lopez
Volunteers instructors for Running Construction Projects (Sandy Bishop/Lopez Community Land Trust and Pete Kilpatrick) and Youth Trades (Gilbert Venegas & John Salinas [SJI Fire & Rescue]; Dave Koch; Suzanne Olson & OPALCO staff members; Kai Hoffman-Krull [San Juan Islands Conservation District]; Chris & Justin Wolfe [Rainshadow Solar]).
In-kind donors: Cornerstone Healthcare Training, Lopez Island School District, Browne’s Home Center, Sunset Building Supply, Orcas Island Library, and Dave Koch
Thank you for helping us change lives!
To join the wonderful people supporting EDC Trades Training programs, click here.
Donations to the EDC, a 501c6 nonprofit organization, are not deductible as charitable deductions, but may be deductible as a business expense. Please consult your CPA for more information.