Seven young Bermudians are ready to hit the road after completing a course in highway construction and asphalt laying.

The two-month Heavy Highway Construction Asphalt training programme was organised by the Ministry of Economy and Labour in partnership with Joell’s Asphalt Service & Maintenance and Urban Construction Services, which provides training for construction professionals.

The curriculum covered a range of subjects, including heavy truck operation, heavy equipment handling, crane operation, below-grade construction, basic asphalt applications and an introduction to various trades, such as masonry, drywall, roofing, painting, maintenance, landscaping, and asphalt construction paving.

The seven graduates have now been awarded industry-standard National Centre for Construction Education and Research credentials — and are keen to get to work.

A government spokeswoman said that public and private sector industry partners were working to secure paid work placements and employment opportunities for the graduates across small, medium and large businesses within the construction industry.

The seven graduates are Chawki Richardson, Garsha Daley, Stevonte Young, Tyori Lynch, Quayan Watson, Samario Valasse and Justin Cameron.

At an awards ceremony, participant Mr Valasse said: “I really appreciated the support and life lessons that were taught along with the technical training. The encouragement to help us to develop our own technique and to also be aware of how to be safe on the job.”

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said the programme was evidence of the Government’s drive to train Bermuda’s workforce.

He said: “By equipping young Bermudians with the necessary skills, knowledge, experience, and certifications, the programme ensures that Bermuda maintains a competent and capable workforce.

“This programme aligns seamlessly with the ministry's Economic Development Strategy, prioritising investment in people, Bermuda's Youth Employment Strategy, National Re-employment Strategy, Training and Development, and Internship Work Placement initiatives, all of which foster meaningful engagement between employers and industry stakeholders within the workforce.

“Participants are encouraged to explore further employment opportunities through the career development team at the Department of Workforce Development.”

The government spokeswoman added that the training and development offered through the programme directly addressed the demand for skilled and certified young Bermudians entering the technical and trades industry.

She said: “The internship placements provided invaluable real-world application opportunities for the acquired skills, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application.

“By empowering our youth with the construction and NCCER training certificates, this programme significantly contributes to reducing unemployment and unskilled labour among Bermudian youth.

“It marks a significant step towards a more prosperous and capable Bermuda.”