MATCH
MATCH creates pathways to self-sustainable life and career paths in manufacturing for individuals with barriers to gainful employment in greater New Haven. MATCH supports trainees in navigating barriers, developing professional and technical skills, and instilling confidence through transformational relationships, wraparound services, and training, resulting in successful entry into the manufacturing workforce.
Target Population
MATCH enrolls participants with a high school diploma or GED from the Greater New Haven Community between the ages of 18-40 from a low-income background facing one or more of these barriers to employment.
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Justice-impacted, including those returning from incarceration
- Involvement with DCF
- Not able to maintain employment for 6+ months
Long-term Outcomes
After participating and succeeding in all parts of MATCH’s programming, participants will sustain gainful employment in the manufacturing industry for 12 months following program graduation.
Program Summary
Throughout the workforce development program, participants learn technical and professional skills to prepare them for a career in manufacturing. In the first months of the program, trainees learn essential technical skills like shop math, precision measuring, welding, blueprint reading, and how to use hand and power tools, while building critical soft skills in reliability, communication, and teamwork. Throughout the program, the MATCH team supports their participants through one-on-one case management and job coaching to overcome obstacles, develop a resume, and prepare for interviews so they can secure a high-quality job in the manufacturing industry that promises opportunities for upward mobility.
“Our partnership with CTOP will allow MATCH to greatly expand access to hands-on, earn-while-you-learn manufacturing training for young adults in New Haven who are eager for a real pathway into good jobs. With CTOP’s support, we can strengthen our wrap-around services, deepen our community reach, and ensure that more disconnected youth gain the skills, confidence, and belonging they need to build stable, successful futures in Connecticut’s manufacturing economy.”
- Marcia LeFemina, Board Chair, & David Feinberg, Executive Director