Kirila Construction Services believes workforce development should lead to real careers, not just certificates. That belief came to life as another class of our construction workforce training in Richmond, VA officially graduated, marking a major step forward for local job training and career placement in the skilled trades.
This milestone reflects a strong partnership between the City of Richmond, the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA), and our team at Kirila Construction Services. Together, we built a hands-on construction training program designed to prepare residents for immediate employment on active job sites throughout the region.
Building Careers, Not Just Skills
Over 12 weeks, participants in our construction workforce development program completed structured training focused on practical construction skills, jobsite readiness, and long-term career growth.
From day one, the goal was clear: prepare Richmond residents to move directly into well-paying construction roles with benefits and upward mobility. This was not a classroom-only experience. Trainees gained hands-on exposure to real-world conditions, learned industry standards, and developed the professional habits required for success in the field.
Upon graduation, participants transitioned into full employment opportunities with our team, supporting active infrastructure and development projects across Richmond.
Removing Barriers to Entry in Construction
We know that entering the construction industry can be challenging without prior experience, certifications, or connections. That is why this program was structured to eliminate common obstacles.
Participants:
- Paid no tuition or training fees
- Earned income while learning
- Gained access to health benefits and retirement contributions
By aligning training with union support and direct job placement, we created a pathway that moves residents from training to stable, family-sustaining careers in construction.
This model strengthens not only individual households but also the broader Richmond workforce.
Hands-On Training Aligned with Industry Demand
The curriculum focused on skills that meet real project needs across heavy civil and commercial construction. Participants trained in:
- Construction safety and OSHA compliance
- Concrete and site work fundamentals
- Traffic control procedures
- Communication, teamwork, and workplace professionalism
Instruction was delivered in community-based settings to keep the program accessible and locally rooted. Our objective was simple: equip Richmond residents to help build the very projects shaping their city.
From Graduation to Active Job Sites
One of the most important aspects of this workforce development initiative is immediate job placement. Graduates are now working with Kirila Construction Services on active projects, contributing to major development efforts including work connected to the Diamond District.
Instead of finishing a training course and beginning a job search, these individuals stepped directly into construction roles that offer long-term opportunity and career progression.
That connection between workforce development and local development creates meaningful impact. Residents gain employment, and the city gains a skilled workforce ready to support ongoing growth.
A Collaborative Model for Workforce Growth
This program represents a collaborative effort between public leadership, organized labor, and private industry. The City of Richmond played an instrumental role in supporting this initiative.
What This Means for the Future
Richmond continues to expand through infrastructure upgrades, redevelopment projects, and commercial construction. With that growth comes demand for skilled labor. Our construction workforce training program is designed to meet that demand responsibly by investing in local talent.
As new projects are announced and regional development continues, we plan to expand future training cohorts and create additional opportunities for residents seeking construction careers.
Our Commitment at Kirila Construction Services
At Kirila Construction Services, workforce development is not a side initiative. It is part of our long-term commitment to building strong teams and stronger communities.
We believe in:
- Investing in local talent
- Providing structured career pathways
- Delivering skilled labor for complex construction projects
If you are interested in future workforce training programs, employment opportunities, or partnering with us on workforce initiatives in Richmond and beyond, we invite you to connect with our team.
We are proud of this graduating class; we are proud of what they represent and we are committed to continuing to build opportunity, one project and one career at a time.
