Summary
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has announced a significant initiative to renovate or rebuild all 18 highway service plazas across the state. This project, led by Applegreen and Suffolk Construction, is set to create 750 local union construction jobs over a three-year construction period beginning in early 2026, with an investment of $750 million aimed at modernizing facilities and supporting local economies.
This initiative not only focuses on infrastructure improvements but also represents a commitment to workforce development through registered apprenticeship programs. The project emphasizes the importance of skilled local tradespeople, ensuring that the new jobs created will provide valuable opportunities for apprentices entering the construction industry and help meet the growing demand for skilled labor in Massachusetts.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This project highlights the vital role of registered apprenticeships in preparing the workforce for high-demand jobs in construction. By prioritizing local union workers and providing pathways for young apprentices, it underscores the importance of earn-and-learn models in fostering career growth and economic stability in the region.
Made in the USA.