BUILD (Building Up Individuals and Local Development) is a workforce development program by North Coast Opportunities that equips Lake County adults facing employment barriers with hands-on training in the construction trades. Participants earn while they learn, gaining real-world experience, tools, and certifications through community improvement projects. In partnership with local organizations, BUILD helps residents launch stable careers while enhancing the quality of life across Lake County.
APPLICANTS
Learn marketable job skills while receiving mentorship and earning $16.50 per hour! Work 30 hours per week over 4 months in the "earn-and-learn" training program to help you develop your talents in the exciting building and construction trades through hands-on education and guidance from experienced mentors and licensed general contractors. Build your industry network and connect with hiring employers. Join a purpose-driven team that makes a difference in the community and encourages each other to succeed. Previous construction experience is not required.
The application window for Spring 2025 positions
is now open!
Apply between December 1, 2025, and January 15, 2026
Stay up to date, sign up for the BUILD e-newsletter
EMPLOYERS
We take care of the new hire training for you, lowering your onboarding costs and risks. Our graduates are equipped with starter tools, safety certifications, building experience, and professional skills training for on-the-job success.
We also offer short-term internships for qualified Lake County contractors. BUILD covers the paycheck and the liability coverage, so you get extra help at no cost and no hassle to you. Contractors use this opportunity to test whether the worker would be a good fit for a permanent position on their crew.
Ready to hire? Interested in no-cost internships? Contact us today at BUILD@ncoinc.org or 707-998-8642.
SolarCHILL Project: Solar-Powered Heating & Cooling with Workforce Development
North Coast Opportunities (NCO), through its BUILD (Building Up Individuals and Local Development) Program, in partnership with Middletown Rancheria, is seeking qualified solar and HVAC contractors to participate in the SolarCHILL Project.
This initiative will deliver complete solar-powered, battery-backed heating and cooling systems to eligible Lake County households—helping low-income and heat-vulnerable residents stay safe and comfortable during extreme weather and grid outages.
Contractors will play a key role not only in system installation but also in training local participants through structured, paid on-the-job workforce development. BUILD covers 100% of participant wages, creating a win-win opportunity to expand your workforce while strengthening community resilience.
For questions: email Derek at dfiedler@ncoinc.org or call 707-998-8384.
COMMUNITY
Calling all landlords, property owners/managers, and developers: BUILD can help you finish that home remodel to get your rental ready for a new renter.
We are looking for projects in Lake County to provide worksites where students can sharpen their skills. All projects are led and supervised by licensed general contractors and BUILD program staff.
Do you have a project for BUILD?
Get in touch: BUILD@ncoinc.org or 707-998-8642
SUPPORT
Help us provide a stepping stone into a fulfilling career and economic security for a Lake County young adult. Your support funds the dignity of a paycheck and tools for a student worker.
90% of BUILD graduates secure stable employment within 3 months of completing our program.
BUILD has 3 distinct goals:
We equip adults with marketable skills and connect them to employment to improve their economic situation and prepare them for success in a new career. Student workers receive on-the-job coaching, professional services, and a paycheck during the 4-month program.
Our trainees work on community projects that contribute to the local affordable housing stock and improve the livability of Lake County. Trainees have worked on projects such as tiny home communities, community garden infrstructure, bathroom remodels, flooring installation, and wildfire mitigation.
We bridge the gap between adults needing mentorship and employers in the construction industry and beyond. Graduates of the program recieve letters of reccomendation, job opportunities, and on-the-job tools. In turn, employers have an increased pool of confident, skilled, and dependable workers from which to hire.
Kayla
Spring '25 Graduate"BUILD's support and giving me a chance means so much more than you'll ever know! The staff helped reBUILD myself and made me feel like I can do and accomplish anything if I want it bad enough! Forever Thank You!"
Dakota
Spring '22 Graduate"Thank you BUILD for the support and the love along the way. I couldn't have accomplished all this without you."
Wendy
Restoration House Manager"Thank you to everyone at BUILD! The work you have done at Restoration House has increased safety, comfort, and added beauty. Everyone who came here to work was always respectful and professional."
This program is a collaboration between several organizations that are devoted to providing housing support and resources in Lake County including:
