SER’s YouthBuild program follows the established national YouthBuild model and integrates individualized GED instruction with hands-on construction training, both of which lead to credentials that increase employability. The program also develops the youth’s leadership skills and readiness for post-secondary training opportunities and the workplace through a combination of service learning projects, career development training and exploration activities, and the-construction worksite component. Participants will make a tangible, positive impact in their community by building affordable housing for residents in need. This experience builds their confidence and sense of commitment to the community, while developing the inter-personal and “soft” skills that they need to be successful.

• Six-month minimum commitment to education & leadership program
• Scheduled Monday-Friday | Virtual-hybrid program flexibility
• Construction skills training with certifications and a focus on Apprenticeship Readiness in 22+ trades
• Credentials in NABTU’s Multi-Core Craft curriculum (MC3) , MI OSHA, EPA’s Lead Renovation Repair & Painting (RRP) and more.
• Health Care Certification in Patient Care Technician and skilled needed for CNA, EKG Tech, Medical Assistant, or Phlebotomy
• Hands-on training, earn & learn up to $1200.00 over 6 months
• Work experience, matching & placement
• Leadership development and community service-learning
• Career exploration & development
• GED option and volunteering experience

As a pre-apprenticeship YouthBuild program funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, SER Metro-Detroit YouthBuilders can choose between two career pathways rooted in leadership and service while completing their high school diploma or GED: Construction Trades or Health Care. Construction participants have the opportunity to earn and learn while exploring 22 trades, gain hands-on carpentry and essential experience, and earn credentials needed for the industry (including NABTU’s Multi-Craft Core Curriculum, OSHA 10/30, CPR/First Aid/AED, and EPA’s Lead Renovation Repair & Painting Rule Certification).

YouthBuild participants who choose the Health Care program begin on a pathway to becoming state certified as Patient Care Technicians. They are equipped with principles and acquire techniques through direct and indirect patient care responsibilities. Patient care responsibilities include, but are not limited to, diagnostic procedures such as 12-lead electrocardiography, phlebotomy, nurse’s aide duties, and specimen collections. Emphasis is placed on safety, documentation, standard precautions, legal and ethical considerations, OSHA standards, and CPR/First Aid/AED.

• Increased employability, leadership, confidence
• Development of skills needed to enroll into credit-bearing college level courses or apprenticeship programs
• Development of critical communication and networking skills
• Understanding the importance of social impact through civic engagement
• High School Equivalency & opportunities in high-paying entry-level career paths 

• Must be 17-24 years old to apply 
• Detroit Resident with few exeptions
• Disconnected from High School
• Interested in committing to Health Care or Construction Certifications
  • *Other eligibility & income requirements may apply*

Southwest Detroit
SER Youth Workforce Center  (SER  YouthBuild  Learning  Academy)
5200 Stecker St
Dearborn, MI 48126   

For more information about our programs, click here to fill out the Youth Registration form, visit our center, or call 313-945-5200 ext. 4200.

For more information about our Adult GED program, click here to fill out the interest form or call 313-945-5200 ext. 4242.