LAWA’s HireLAX Program: $1M Federal Grant Boosts Aviation Careers

Los Angeles World Airport’s (LAWA) HireLAX Apprenticeship Readiness Program recently celebrated the graduation of its 17th cohort, accompanied by a significant announcement. Congresswoman Maxine Waters presented LAWA with a $1 million federal grant to support careers in aviation-related fields. This funding will contribute to HireLAX’s mission of maximizing the local economic impact of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) by training and including local workers from the diverse surrounding community.

Empowering Communities through Job Training:
Since its establishment in 2017, the HireLAX program has demonstrated remarkable success. With 358 graduates and 255 of them securing construction and trade roles, the program has collectively enabled its graduates to earn over $15 million. The 17th cohort, consisting of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, Hispanics or Latinos, African Americans, Asians, and those with prior involvement in the criminal justice system, is now prepared to pursue and thrive in construction and trade careers.

Recognition and Support:
Congresswoman Maxine Waters emphasized the transformative impact of programs like HireLAX, highlighting the $1 million grant as an opportunity to provide job training in the aviation sector to those who need it most. Her support, along with the presence of other esteemed individuals such as Board of Airport Commissioners President Karim Webb and LAWA’s Chief Executive Officer Justin Erbacci, underscores the importance placed on creating economic opportunities through HireLAX.

National Attention and Ongoing Success:
HireLAX has gained recognition as a model program for community engagement and inclusivity, attracting attention beyond California. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg witnessed firsthand the life-changing opportunities the program provides during his visit to announce funding for airport infrastructure projects. With the $1 million federal grant for FY23, LAWA aims to continue and expand this successful workforce development program and other aviation-related initiatives.

A Collaborative Effort:
The HireLAX program is a collaborative partnership involving LAWA, Los Angeles Southwest College, and the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building and Construction Trades Council. Through an eight-week training program covering construction best practices, mathematics, physical education, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, students are prepared for their future careers. The program also aids in meeting LAWA’s critical need for trained construction workers and ensures that local workers account for at least 30% of those employed by contractors working on LAWA projects.

LAWA’s HireLAX Apprenticeship Readiness Program has consistently demonstrated its commitment to empowering local communities by providing job training opportunities in aviation-related fields. The recent $1 million federal grant received during the 17th cohort’s graduation ceremony further solidifies the program’s importance and its ability to create economic opportunities for individuals in the surrounding communities. With continued support and expansion, HireLAX will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping the future of the aviation industry and uplifting underrepresented individuals into successful careers.

LAWA: https://www.lawa.org/lawa-employment/lawa-hirelax

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