NOVA Honors Third Class of Google STARs, Fourth Starts in Sept!

August 13, 2024 / Our Nighthawks

Nine talented students graduated from Google’s Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) training program last month. The ceremony took place at the Virginia Portuguese Community Center in Manassas. It was attended by friends, family, and Google and NOVA leadership.

This paid five-week pre-employment program, funded by Google, aims to develop a robust pipeline of skilled trade workers. It focuses on entry-level talent from underrepresented communities to bolster the workforce in specific regions. In the bootcamp-style program, participants learn about various skilled trades and their corresponding careers (e.g., electrical, carpentry, HVAC, welding and plumbing) through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on practice and visits to live construction sites. The dynamic mix of training prepares students for entry-level positions in construction. Participants also earn industry-recognized certifications, including CPR/ First Aid and OSHA-10.

The program’s core areas are construction (including carpentry, mechanical and electrical) and fiber optics. In addition to training, the Google Star program also offers professional networking opportunities to help students more smoothly transition to the workforce. To date, 31 NOVA Google STARs have graduated from the program since October 2023.

The Google STAR program is intended for individuals interested in a career in construction. Students accepted into the program participate in training that mirrors a 40-hour work week in the industry. Upon completion of the program, participants can apply for entry-level jobs in the skilled trades. 

Do you know students who are ready to start their career in the construction industry? The application for the fourth Google STAR cohort is now open. The application deadline is Friday, August 16, with classes set to begin on Monday, September 9. 

In-person informational sessions:

To get started, students should fill out the interest form.

For more information about the Google STARs program, please have students email Ronni Ortiz at VOrtiz@nvcc.edu

Submitted by:
Kathy Parkinson, PIO, KParkinson@nvcc.edu