Weatherization / Deconstruction

The Weatherization / Deconstruction training is provided by Henry Ford Community College (HFCC) and WARM Training Center (WARM).  WARM is a Detroit Free Press “2010 Michigan Green Leaders” honoree and has been a model of green construction training in the Detroit area for over twenty years.  Trainees will learn current weatherization techniques including energy conservation, home energy analysis, insulation installation, basic carpentry and home construction, home health and safety hazard identification, and diagnostic tool usage (including blower door testing and thermal imaging), among others.    

The Weatherization / Deconstruction certification process lasts 10-12 weeks.  Some trainings will also include an additional 2 week deconstruction class. ( Not all trainings include deconstruction) 

Weatherization trainees receive various certifications upon completion of the entire program.  These include the Weatherization Specialist Program Certificate of Completion, various safety certificates (including Asbestos Awareness, CPR, First Aid, and Lead-Aware Renovation), the ACT National Career Readiness Certificate, and a Construction Safety and Health course completion card from OSHA and MIOSHA.  Those who participate in the two week deconstruction class will also get a Deconstruction Certification.

Trainees will report to WARM at 2718 Bagley St, Detroit, MI, 48216 every weekday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Training will occur mostly on location at WARM in the classroom facilities and home renovation workshop available there.  The home renovation workshop contains “practice homes” that trainees will use to practice green renovation techniques.  Trainees will also make field trips to HFCC’s M-TEC center where they will work to attain their safety certifications.  Transportation will be provided to M-TEC.

Throughout the training process and afterwards Southwest Solutions will provide additional supportive services to participants.  Each trainee will be in contact with a case manager who will work to remove any obstacles to meaningful employment, such as transportation or childcare issues.  Southwest Solutions also employs a Job Developer who works to cultivate employment opportunities for trainees, and a Workforce Development Coach who meets with trainees to develop their resumes and improve their interview skills in order to increase employability.  To further increase trainee employability, WARM provides trainees with steel-toe boots and a basic tool kit.

Photos from training:

Congratulations to the first graduating class from WARM / HFCC’s Weatherization and Deconstruction program!