The future of Puerto Rico’s construction industry is already taking shape — inside the classroom. On August 15, 2025, the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) — an initiative of AGC Puerto Rico — officially began with the first group of apprentices starting courses at Workforce Training Academy in Arecibo and Huertas College in Caguas.

This inaugural class brings together 49 apprentices from 12 construction companies across Puerto Rico, each selected by their employers based on performance, potential, and commitment to the industry. For the next one to two years, these apprentices will combine hands-on work experience with certified technical training in high-demand trades, including:

• General construction (1–2 year programs)
• Carpentry (2-year program)
• Masonry (2-year program)
• Concrete finishing (2-year program)

As highlighted in previous DDD updates, the RAP program is designed not just to provide training, but also to attract, develop, and retain new talent in an industry where skilled labor is in critical demand. By combining technical education with structured mentorship, RAP creates a pathway for workers to view construction not just as a job, but as a long-term career.

The launch day was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, with DDD Group President Umberto Donato and AGC Puerto Rico President Ing. José Torrens addressing the apprentices and industry partners. Both leaders emphasized the program’s historic importance and its role in preparing a workforce capable of meeting Puerto Rico’s construction needs today and in the future.

For DDD Group, supporting RAP is more than a milestone — it’s the continuation of our long-standing belief that investing in people is the best way to build the future. By strengthening the skills of today’s workforce, we’re helping to address the talent gap, raise industry standards, and create opportunities that benefit not only our company but the entire construction sector in Puerto Rico.

As an early supporter of this initiative, DDD is proud to see RAP moving from planning to reality. The start of classes at Huertas College and Workforce Training Academy represents a historic step for Puerto Rico, one that can serve as a model for other regions and countries seeking to address similar workforce challenges.

The start of classes is just the beginning. Each apprentice represents the promise of a stronger, more resilient workforce, one that will design, build, and maintain the projects that shape Puerto Rico for generations to come.

At DDD Group, we remain committed to developing talent, mentoring future leaders, and ensuring that Puerto Rico’s construction industry is truly Built for the Job.