Bringing historically underrepresented populations into its workforce has been a priority for NW Natural, which is investing resources and harnessing 165 years of expertise across Oregon and Southwest Washington by partnering with trade unions, instructional programs and community organizations.
For example, when incarcerated adults are released from custody, an immediate opportunity for meaningful employment reduces chances of recidivism. Union Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training provides that opportunity through a 12-week program launched by trade unions at the all-female Coffee Creek Correctional Facility in the Portland, Oregon, suburbs. Those completing the program receive direct or preferred entry into a union-sponsored apprenticeship upon release, with wraparound support from NW Natural, including costs for basics like tools, first-month union dues and transportation assistance.
“The skills learned in the program are valuable to employers and help prepare adults in custody for success in the construction trades,” said Lorne Bulling, political coordinator, Ironworkers Local 29.
Also helping women break down barriers is Oregon Tradeswomen, an organization that provides training, career education, advocacy and leadership development in the skilled trades. NW Natural participates in the organization’s events, hosting cohorts at company facilities and helping up-and-coming tradeswomen hone both the occupational and soft skills needed to succeed in the workplace. In addition, participants can observe hands-on demonstrations of work typically performed by NW Natural employees and receive feedback on mock interviews.
NW Natural’s partnership with Linn-Benton Community College helps young people choose a career path by connecting high school graduates with training opportunities. To make training more affordable, NW Natural offers a chance at a $5,000 scholarship for graduating high school seniors entering an LBCC trades program. “We are thrilled to award these scholarships to such deserving students who have demonstrated a commitment to their education and communities,” said David Van Der Haeghen, NW Natural’s community affairs manager for the area.
Internships add options for employers as well as prospective employees, and with that in mind, NW Natural’s construction intern program achieves dual aims: It creates a career pipeline for workers with transferrable skills and brings in a more diverse group of applicants. The program’s success has led NW Natural to launch a second internship for customer field service technicians.
Additionally, each year at the company’s Portland headquarters, NW Natural partners with Emerging Leaders PDX to bring in college students and recent graduates of color for internships in a variety of roles. Interns bring their talents and new perspectives, while NW Natural helps ensure they are taking on the meaningful work employers value.
“We recognize the value of a strong and diverse workforce,” added Mary Moerlins, director of environmental policy and corporate responsibility. “NW Natural continues to build and deepen relationships with community partners and organizations looking to increase, broaden and diversify our pool of skilled workers.”