Photo: (L-R): RoseMarie Morreo TM Vice-Chairwoman, Richard Gallardo TM TERO Office Manager, Gary Resvaloso TM Tribal Council Member, Lorenda Sanchez CIMC Executiv eDirector, Jeffrey Jackson AIAI, Elena Loya TM TribalTreasurer, Joe Loya TM Tribal Representative, Katie Gladish TM Housing Coordinator, Mike Kramer Thunderbird Electric Project Manager.
The Riverside-San Bernardino Building and Construction Trades Council Readiness Program, hosted by the California Indian Manpower Consortium at the Torres-Martinez Indian Reservation, has successfully completed two Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC-3) trainings earning a nationally recognized certification from the North American Building Trades Council that opens doors to apprenticeships across North America and in conjunction with 16 Tiny Home shelters that are being constructed.
Nineteen students graduated from the six-week, 140-hour program on March 13th. Jeremiah Sander, a certificate instructor for the North American Building Trades Council and a 20-year current journeyman with the Plumbers & Pipefitters Union, taught the 140-hour class. They took six tours to the union trades training centers and one to the Penta Management’s construction site. Also, the students got certificated by HERC Equipment Rental on two pieces of equipment: a 5K forklift and basket crane that were donated by HERC Rental.
During the MC-3 core trades program, participants dive into a wide range of essential training, from construction safety (OSHA and first aid) and sustainable building practices to financial literacy, diversity in the trades and hands-on experience with equipment tools and materials. The program offers a pathway into one of the 22 skilled trade apprenticeships, helping students find the right fit in the construction trades industry.
Torres-Martinez Housing Coordinator Katie Gladish said, “I see firsthand the need for safe, stable housing for Tribal members experiencing homelessness. This Tiny Home Project represents a meaningful step toward addressing that need with care and respect.”
This Tiny House village is more than a housing project in conjunction with the MC-3 program. It reflects the Tribe’s commitment to the dignity and healing of its people. These homes may be small, but they will provide safety, stability, hope, and a foundation for healing and new beginnings.
I would like to thank the Tribal Council for their leadership, trust and guidance throughout this process. The partnership team offers special recognition to Lorenda Sanchez, Executive Director of CIMC, whose dedication and partnership has been invaluable in bringing this project to life.
