Walsh Construction, UK launch 2nd Pre-Apprenticeship Cohort
LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 30, 2026) — Walsh Construction and the University of Kentucky officially kicked off the second cohort of the UK Pre-Apprenticeship Program this month, continuing a workforce development partnership aimed at creating sustainable pathways into the construction trades for Lexington-area residents.
The program, tied directly to the construction of the UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building, enrolled seven participants from seven trade partner companies and will run through June 9. The full-time, eight-week commitment requires approximately 40 hours per week of hands-on training and professional development.
“What makes this program different is that it’s real,” said Muhummad Starks, project manager for Walsh Construction, who will lead the program. “Participants are on an active jobsite, working alongside our trade partners, learning what the work actually looks like day-to-day. We’re not just introducing people to construction — we’re giving them a pathway to a long-term career.”
In addition to UK and Walsh Construction, other participants and partners in the Pre-Apprenticeship Program’s second cohort are Lawrence Bruner of Ameresco/Riverside Electric Contractors, Carol Savchick of Besco, Jeffrey Swisher of Glenwood, Ryan Readnower of Hussung, Korey Reed and Tristan Chi of Valley and John Ganem of Woodford Excavation and Transport.
The Pre-Apprenticeship Program is designed to introduce participants to careers in the skilled trades through job-readiness training, technical skills development and direct exposure to the construction industry. The program serves as a bridge to registered apprenticeship opportunities, allowing participants to explore construction trades before committing to a full apprenticeship.
Participants will receive training from both tradespeople and management while building communication and workplace readiness skills. Program components include subcontractor sponsorship, office mentor assignments, and placement pathways into full time employment or registered apprentice programs.
“When Walsh introduced the Pre-Apprenticeship Program, we said yes. Their commitment to this program is sincere and it reflects their values as a company,” said Marilyn Clark, UK economic engagement manager. “This program is growing a pipeline of workers needed in the skilled trades. The greater impact is seen in the individual participants. They now have opportunities for sustainable careers in construction with competitive wages. It really is changing lives. The University of Kentucky is pleased to be a partner with Walsh in this impactful work.”
The program's first cohort launched in August 2025 with three subcontractor partners. The expansion to seven trade partners in the second cohort reflects growing industry investment in local workforce development aligned with the ongoing UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building project.
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and healthcare. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $1.02 billion research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.