At Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont, construction training is more than just learning a trade – it’s about transforming lives. In honor of Careers in Construction Month, we’re highlighting three Goodwill team members who play a vital role in guiding participants toward sustainable careers in the skilled trades.
Verona Hendrix, Robert Johnson and Matt Robson assist construction participants in preparing for a role in the industry. As Career Navigators, Verona and Robert provide career coaching, assisting with resumes and mock interviews to ensure participants are ready to secure their next role. As an Employer Engagement Specialist, Matt works with employers to set up opportunities to find talent, such as job fairs and roundtables. He then works to connect participants with employers in hopes that they will find a great match.
We asked the team a few questions about the work they do and how Goodwill’s Construction Skills Training Program is helping participants prepare for the future of construction.
How do you support participants in the construction program?
- Matt: I help close the construction labor gap in Charlotte by connecting participants with construction companies offering entry-level opportunities with growth potential. I build relationships with both parties to ensure the right fit and offer services like job leads, referrals, hiring events, and employer-led training.
- Verona: Career Navigators provide comprehensive coaching and navigation services to prepare participants for the successful completion of training and employment in the construction industry.
- Robert: I guide participants from enrollment to employment, helping them identify career goals, connect with training, and prepare for interviews. My goal is to empower participants with the tools and confidence they need to succeed in a high-demand field.
How is Goodwill preparing participants for the future of construction?
- Matt: Our program is forward-thinking. We’re constantly evolving our offerings based on employer feedback and market research. We also bring in industry experts to speak to students or lead training sessions.
- Verona: We equip participants with essential and employability skills to help them adapt and thrive in the current and future construction workforce.
- Robert: Goodwill combines hands-on training with essential career readiness skills. Through partnerships with industry leaders, we ensure the curriculum reflects current trends and technologies, like sustainable building practices and digital tools used on job sites. Participants also earn certifications and receive wraparound support, equipping them not just for today’s construction jobs, but for long-term success in a rapidly evolving industry.
What does it mean to be part of someone’s journey toward a sustainable career?
- Matt: I am very grateful I have found a role where personal impact is created as a result of the work I do. It continues to motivate me each day because I know that my effort on the job is directly linked to better outcomes for both our participants and the broader Charlotte community.
- Verona: It’s a wonderful feeling to help someone meet their goals and thrive in a new career!
- Robert: It means everything to me. It’s about more than just helping someone find a job—it’s about empowering them to build a future they can be proud of. I get to witness growth, celebrate wins, and support participants through challenges. Helping someone gain stability and purpose is incredibly rewarding.
Why is partnering with Goodwill a smart investment for construction employers seeking skilled, job-ready talent?
- Matt: Employers should partner with Goodwill not only because it saves them time and money on recruiting talent, but it allows us to continue to gain funding and offer trainings and other employment services at no cost to the participant. We emphasize essential skills like initiative, communication, and conflict resolution—qualities employers consistently seek.
- Verona: Goodwill offers more than other construction training centers. We offer classroom and hands-on training and access to three certifications upon completion. In addition, we provide career coaching, essential skills, and access to employer networks.
- Robert: Partnering with Goodwill is a smart investment for construction employers because it connects them with a pipeline of motivated, well-prepared talent. Goodwill’s training programs are aligned with industry needs, so employers benefit from candidates who are technically skilled, adaptable, and ready to contribute from day one. Partnering with Goodwill also shows a commitment to workforce development and community impact — helping build a stronger, more inclusive construction industry.
