Nestled in the center of Hybla Valley, a Fairfax County, Virginia community, is the Workforce Innovation Skills Hub (WISH) Center. First opened in 2022, the WISH Center—operated by Melwood Community Services through Fairfax County’s Department of Family Services—connects residents of Fairfax County to the training, skills building, and career development services needed to support the region’s rapid development.
On March 21, the WISH Center, Fairfax County, and Melwood Community Services marked a new milestone when 19 participants from the center’s first building and construction trades training program celebrated their graduation.
Building Paths is an eight-week program which was developed and is operated by Melwood Community Services. It introduces participants to essential skills needed to pursue careers in the building and construction trades industries. Paired with soft-skills training for successful employment, the program gives participants hands-on experience in carpentry, welding, and electrical work, and certifies graduates in:
- OSHA 10
- CPR/First Aid
- Flagger certifications
The course is designed to put graduates on self-chosen paths to continuing education, union apprenticeships, or direct, entry-level employment in construction and construction-related industries.
For graduate Shardae Watts, Building Paths offered so much more than she expected. Watts initially joined the class for technical training but discovered a passion for welding. “I tried it and thought, ‘I can do this!’ Now, I’m looking to get more certifications under my belt,” she said.
“Building Paths is not just about learning a trade—it’s about personal growth, empowerment, and community,” said Eboni Borden, the program director for the WISH Center. “Since 2021, Melwood has worked with community partners to run a successful Building Paths program that introduces people to career possibilities in the building and construction trades, and we’re thrilled to bring this transformative course to the WISH Center and Fairfax County residents.”
Upon completing the program, graduates receive support and guidance from the WISH Center and Melwood, including interview assistance, resume workshops, and other services that directly connect program graduates to employment opportunities. Seven of this cohort’s graduates are already working in the building and construction trades.
To learn more about Building Paths or other services offered at WISH, visit www.melwoodcommunity.org
