CONSTRUCTION JOBS PROGRAM OFFERED IN FEBRUARY

	ST. LOUIS--A job preparation program for people 18 and older interested in exploring construction jobs will be offered in north and south St. Louis, beginning Feb. 10.

	A free orientation for the Construction Trades Academy will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the following dates:

* Monday, Feb. 3, at Northwest Middle School, 5140 Riverview Drive, St. Louis 63120

* Tuesday, Feb. 4, at Cleveland High School, 4352 Louisiana, St. Louis 63111. 

	Sponsors are the St. Louis Public Schools, several construction trade unions, Ameren UE, and University of Missouri Outreach and Extension.

	According to Roz Sherman Voellinger, labor education specialist with University of Missouri Outreach and Extension, participants in the 10-week course will receive hands-on experience with various trades, with special emphasis on construction trades. "Participants will learn how they can become construction apprentices who can earn a starting salary of approximately $12 per hour with excellent benefits," Voellinger said.

	Classes will be held two evenings per week at Northwest Middle School and Cleveland Junior Naval Academy from Feb. 10 through April 21.

	For more information or to register for the Feb. 3 orientation, call Gary Hayes, 314-261-8282. To register for the Feb. 4 orientation, call Maureen Filter Nolan, 314-807-0818.