UK, Walsh Construction, Goodwill Kentucky launch Pre-Apprenticeship Program Aug. 1 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 28, 2025) — The University of Kentucky, in partnership with Walsh Construction and Goodwill Kentucky, is launching a new Pre-Apprenticeship Program on Aug. 1. The initiative, tied to the construction of the UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building, is designed to introduce participants to careers in the skilled trades through an eight-week, hands-on learning experience. 

The Pre-Apprenticeship Program aims to provide job-readiness training, technical skills and exposure to the construction industry. The program serves as a pathway to Registered Apprenticeship opportunities and offers participants a chance to explore construction trades before committing to a full apprenticeship. 

“Walsh Construction’s pre-apprentice program equips individuals with hands-on skills, mentorship and real-world experience. It builds a skilled workforce that supports essential industries like healthcare and strengthens our communities,” said Eric Radlof, Walsh vice president. “This is not just another job for the men and women that participate in the program; it starts their career in the construction industry.” 

Walsh is collaborating with Goodwill’s Lexington Opportunity Center to identify and prepare program participants. Goodwill has referred candidates who have been actively engaged in workforce services and are considered job-ready. The selection process included outreach, application, screening and interviews. To qualify, participants must: 

• Possess a valid driver’s license 
• Pass a pre-drug screening 
• Have the physical ability to perform construction work 
• Be at least 18 years old 
• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent 

“Programs like this are essential for creating pathways to stable careers and long-term self-sufficiency, especially for job seekers who have faced significant barriers to employment,” said Alycia Tidrick, Goodwill Kentucky’s director of strategic partnerships. “Goodwill Kentucky is proud to partner with Walsh Construction and the University of Kentucky to offer participants hands-on training, job experience, and a meaningful step toward a brighter future. This kind of opportunity is only possible through true collaboration, and we’re grateful for our shared commitment to making it happen.”

The eight-week program will be led by Muhammad Starks, project manager for Walsh Construction, and will involve: 

• Sponsorship by a subcontractor working with Walsh on the UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building project 
• Office mentor assignment 
• Rotational subcontractor job shadowing 
• Subcontractor hiring and placement in registered apprentice programs 

Participants will receive hands-on training from both tradespeople and management while developing communication and workplace readiness skills. The program will take place in partnership with three subcontractors: Lithko, Besco and Hussung. At the end of the eight-week program, participants may be hired directly by these subcontractors and sponsored into Registered Apprenticeship Programs. 

 "We commend Walsh Construction for integrating the pre-apprenticeship program into their company’s mission. This initiative demonstrates their dedication to supporting the local communities and economies where they operate,” said Marilyn Clark, UK economic engagement manager. “The collaboration is particularly timely, given the current shortage of construction workers. According to a 2024 survey by the Associated General Contractors, 94% of construction firms nationwide are struggling to find workers to hire. The Walsh Pre-Apprenticeship Program is paving the way for a solution that could be replicated across the country.” 

The Lexington launch follows a successful pilot by Walsh Construction in Cook County, Illinois, where all pre-apprentices were hired back onto the project as full apprentices. 

For more information, contact Muhammad Starks at mstarks@walshgroup.com.