R3 Construction Pre-Apprenticeship From Connections Work in Reading
Connections Work runs R3, an 8-week registered pre-apprenticeship program in the construction trades built on best practices in reentry programming and career and technical education. It aims to improve employment outcomes and reduce recidivism.
The 8 weeks have three parts: career and technical education at Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center, hands-on learning at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts Woodworking Studio and Welding Studio, and an employment focused cognitive curriculum with job readiness skills delivered by Connections Work staff.
Participants have the ability to receive: - Up to $2,500 stipend over 8 weeks - Case management and mentoring for one year post-graduation - Job search and placement assistance - Flagger and OSHA Safety Certifications - Credit toward apprenticeships offered by Associated Builders and Contractors Keystone and Eastern PA Chapters, plus select Berks Career and Technology Center programs
Since the program began, an average of 65% of R3 graduates have maintained stable employment at one year post graduation, and the recidivism rate for graduates is less than 5%, compared with a Pennsylvania rate of 46% as of 2/2024.
For more information, email Referral@connectionswork.org. Connections Work is at 19 N. 6th St, 4th Floor, Reading, PA 19601, and its general phone number is 484.260.3860.
The program runs in cohorts. The page does not say when the next cohort starts, who qualifies, how to apply, whether there is any cost to take part, or what the office hours are, so ask when you get in touch.
Source: connectionswork.org/r3-program, read September 18, 2026.
The details
In Connections Work’s words
R3 is a comprehensive registered pre-apprenticeship program in the construction trades. R3 utilizes best practices to transform participants’ lives by improving employment outcomes and reducing recidivism. Connections Work created this comprehensive program model that utilizes best practices in reentry programming and career & technical education. R3 is an 8-week registered pre-apprenticeship program in the construction trade and is comprised of three components:
Organization
Connections Work
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This listing summarizes publicly available information from connectionswork.org/r3-program. Last recorded review: September 18, 2026. Contact the provider to confirm eligibility, hours and availability before you go. If something here is wrong, tell us.