Las Vegas group, school launch scholarship to expand access to skilled trades

When Yessica Romero began working in construction, she said she had to figure out how to navigate the industry by herself.

That’s why Romero, the board president of the National Association of Women in Construction Las Vegas chapter, said she’s excited about a new scholarship in partnership with trade school Quality Training Centers intended to fill a gap like the one she encountered when entering the industry.

Romero said the scholarship — and her work in the trade group more broadly — is meant to expose more people to careers in the trades and helping them access training opportunities.

“There’s a lot of people out there that don’t know that there’s trades,” Romero, who also runs her own construction safety consulting company, said. “What is construction? How can this benefit you? Take advantage of it. There’s so much in here, and it’s good. It’s a career.”

The scholarship will provide one recipient with full tuition for a 12-week hands-on training program in HVAC, electrical or refrigeration at QTC, valued at $8,900, according to a news release.

Applications will be accepted through July 24 and will be evaluated on the applicant’s commitment to pursuing a career in skilled trades, overall readiness for training, ability to successfully complete the program and potential for employment after graduation, the news release read.

“When we invest in people, we strengthen our workforce, our industry, and our community,” Romero said. “That’s exactly why this scholarship is about creating opportunities and building the future one student at a time.”

NAWIC has long partnered with other trade schools, Romero said. But, she added that when she went to QTC’s facilities, she “fell in love with what they offered.” She described their set-up for each training class as “mind-blowing.”

Chris Roth, co-owner of Quality Training Centers, said he was eager to partner with NAWIC because it’s a “respected organization that’s deeply committed to creating opportunity in construction and skilled trades.”

“For us, it’s a natural partnership because both organizations want to help more people access meaningful careers,” Roth said.

While this scholarship is currently a one-time opportunity, Romero said she was excited to continue “growing these opportunities” through her work at NAWIC. Roth said he was hopeful they could offer further scholarships in the future.

“We want more scholarships, stronger partnerships with the industry, and more people, especially women, to see construction as a rewarding career that could build a successful future,” she said.

Contact Sophie Baker at sbaker@reviewjournal.com.