BRONX — Jedidiah Israel has spent nearly 30 years providing workers under his supervision with an enriched experience as a developmental aide at Metropolitan DDSO.
He decided that it was about time that he enriched himself by participating in the NYS & CSEA Partnership for Education and Training’s Applied Skills Trades Program.
Leaving his day program once a week for a couple of years has allowed him to complete and earn certificates in not just one, but two programs: plumber and steamfitter, as well as electrician.
“I always like to learn new things,” said Israel. “The materials helped me improve my skills.”
While he’s not planning to transfer his new skills to a new job or apply for a promotion, Israel enjoys the ability to fix electrical or plumbing problems at home.
“Any time you can take time off to improve yourself, that’s a good thing,” said Israel.
The program also provided him with an opportunity to meet fellow union members who work for a variety of state agencies.
“It was great meeting people from different state agencies,” said Israel. “You get to learn what’s going on in different job sites and you learn a lot from them, too.”
Now approaching the end of his career, Israel said he hopes others would apply and take these invaluable courses as well.
“I am trying to encourage co-workers to take these courses,” said Israel. “It’s a great opportunity for the staff to improve themselves and improve their abilities.”
— David Galarza
