ConnectU2Jobs Program
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ConnectU2Jobs Program

Connect U2 jobs logo

ConnectU2Jobs (CU2J) is a Highway Construction Workforce Partnership pilot program created to fill a need for a skilled highway construction workforce. The current focus of CU2J is to connect justice-involved young adults to job training, life skills coaching, and job placement. Participants also receive family supportive services such as health services, access to food pantries, and referrals for community-based childcare. To ensure success, CU2J includes a variety of partners, such as community organizations, education agencies, and industry employers.

CU2J is the first step in creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled workforce for the transportation industry which is critical to maintain safe roads in Texas.

Become a program partner

Trainee eligibility

  • At least 18 years old.
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States.
  • Must have a valid Social Security card.
  • Holds a valid Texas Driver's License or have the ability to obtain one.
  • Able to pass a drug test.
  • An opportunity youth.
  • Not a current college student enrolled in courses.

Program timeline

  • 12 weeks of classroom and on-the-job training.
  • Six months of full-time earn-and-learn training with your employer partner.

Upcoming cohorts

If you are interested in signing up for an upcoming session and you meet the criteria above, please submit an interest form.

Date* Location Description Application deadline
05/30/23 – 08/22/23 Dallas Heavy Equipment Operator/Loader 05/16/23
08/07/23 – 11/10/23 Dallas Heavy Equipment Operator/Loader 07/24/23
09/18/23 – 12/15/23 Dallas Heavy Equipment Operator/Loader 09/04/23

Community and employer partners

  • Associated General Contractors of Texas
  • City of Lancaster
  • Dallas College
  • Federal Highway Administration
  • First Step Community Empowerment
  • JJG Development
  • Lone Star Justice Alliance
  • Regional Black Contractors Association
  • Regional Hispanic Contractors Association
  • Texas A&M Transportation Institute
  • Texas Workforce Commission
  • Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas
  • Archer Western
  • Austin Bridge & Road
  • Azteca-Omega Group
  • Balfour Beatty
  • Granite Construction
  • Lone Star Constructors
  • North Tarrant Infrastructure, LLC
  • Reyes Group
  • Sundt Construction
  • Webber
  • Zachry Group