Newark—Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop congratulated hundreds of graduates who marked a milestone at a ceremony at NJIT .  These hardworking men and women have completed their studies through programs offered through the Thomas Shortman Training Fund.  The course work varies from academics to trades such as electricity, carpentry, plumbing, air conditioning and refrigeration as well as green courses.

Jorge Cabrejos was among the 350 graduates honored.  “The training fund program has given me a valuable opportunity to learn English and gain new skills,” said Cabrejos.  “These tools will help me to advance my career goals and provide a bright future for my family.”

The goal of the Thomas Shortman Training Fund is to help every participant reach their full potential.  The courses are offered free of charge to eligible 32BJ members online and at more than 20 locations across the state.

“At 32BJ we want to raise working standards for our members and all hardworking men and women,” said Kevin Brown, 32BJ Vice President and New Jersey State Director.  “We can do this by making sure workers have the education and skills they need to meet the challenges of a changing industry.”

Among the graduates are 25 new Americans who took courses to prepare for the citizenship exam.  The various educational programs are offered through a partnership with the New Jersey Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development.

*About 32BJ: With 145,000 members in 11 states–including more than 10,000 in New Jersey–32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.

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