Partner Spotlight: Larry Woods

The Diversity Division of The Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) partnered with the  Missouri Works Initiative’s Building Union Diversity Program (BUD STL) in St. Louis to establish the Workforce Development Grant Program. According to Larry Woods, Diversity Construction Supervisor with the MSD, “Our Diversity Division is unwavering in its commitment to the initiation and support of programs and endeavors designed to create a trained, qualified workforce of minorities and females in the field of sewer construction. The Workforce Development Grant Program has helped create a pool of qualified individuals including minorities and women. The resultant workforce is equipped to fulfill our pre-set “boots on the ground” workforce goals for our capital improvement projects. This approach also allows for employment opportunities for under- and unemployed individuals within the communities we serve.”

Larry’s role with the program is multifaceted, including vital behind-the-scenes work to help students get hired and to ensure underrepresented individuals are gainfully employed on job sites. “I regularly speak to the new cohorts of the Building Union Diversity Program discussing the requirements, opportunities, and benefits associated with employment in the sewer construction industry,” says Larry. “This active engagement also involves hosting on-site job tours where participants can gain real-life insights and understanding of the industry.” Woods regularly attends the Apprentice Ready Program in St. Louis-hosted hiring events and graduation ceremonies and provides continual follow-up support to program graduates, ensuring their transition into the industry is as smooth as possible.

“I wholeheartedly believe that Missourians who participate in this program stand to gain immensely. The program affords participants invaluable skills and resources and provides a solid foundation of support. With these tools, individuals are empowered to secure occupations in a trade, in turn enabling them to earn a decent living and provide for their families,” says Woods.

With the unique opportunity to see students through the whole program, Larry’s favorite aspect is watching them come full circle. “If I had to narrow down my favorite aspect of the program, it would undoubtedly be witnessing the journeys of the individuals who participate in the program. From the initial stages right through to their ultimate success, being able to chart this progression is deeply rewarding. Regular updates and heartfelt expressions of gratitude from participants serve as constant reminders of the significance of our efforts,” shares Larry.

Woods believes the BUD STL Apprentice Ready Program is already shaping the social and economic landscape. “By opening up opportunities to individuals who are often overlooked or underserved, the program is cultivating a new generation of construction industry workers,” he says.  “This fresh intake of talent and innovation broadens the scope of inclusion within the industry. In doing so, those who may have previously encountered barriers to entry are being given a platform to succeed. These individuals not only contribute to the existing workforce but are also an integral part of future infrastructural upgrades. In essence, the program is paving the way for sustained, long-term development that will serve our needs now and into the future.”