Chase Center training program graduates 33; public‑private partners highlight hiring commitments

The Chase Center construction training program celebrated its inaugural graduating class of 33 trainees in a public ceremony that brought together city officials, private funders and labor partners. Michael Carr of the Office of Economic & Workforce Development (OEWD) and program partners credited the program with serving residents who work full time during the week and train on weekends to prepare for trades employment.

Mayor Ed Lee, Board of Supervisors President London Breed and representatives from JPMorgan Chase and Mortenson Clark praised the public‑private partnership. JPMorgan Chase told the audience it plans to invest $25 million in Bay Area initiatives over three years to support workforce readiness and related community programs; Mortenson Clark and the Warriors described company recruitment plans for the Chase Center project and other Bay Area construction work.

Several graduates and instructors described how the nine‑week program delivered hands‑on training, safety certifications and introductions to union hiring halls. City staff and contractors said the next steps are placement in apprenticeships and monitoring outcomes; OEWD will track placements and report back to partners.