Rutigliano Visits Carpenters Local 326, Highlights Workforce Training & 2026 Legislative Priorities
Key Takeaways
- Rutigliano highlights workforce training to boost skilled labor and local job growth
- Lawmakers push apprenticeship expansion
- Rutigliano calls for policy changes to align education with industry needs
- Prioritizing workforce development as a 2026 legislative focus
WALLINGFORD, CT — State Representative David Rutigliano recently visited Carpenters Local 326 in Wallingford to tour its training facilities and meet with apprentices, instructors, and union leadership. The visit highlighted the union’s comprehensive workforce development programs offered through the North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund (NASCTF) and the Yalesville Training Center.
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“Our skilled trades are essential to Connecticut’s economy, and programs like this are setting people up for long-term success,” said Rep. Rutigliano, the House Republican Deputy Leader. “It was great to hear directly from apprentices and union leaders about what’s working and how the legislature can continue to support workforce training and job growth.”
During his visit, Rep. Rutigliano spoke with trainees enrolled in the Local’s four-year apprenticeship program, which combines hands-on, on-the-job training with classroom instruction to prepare participants as skilled journeyworkers. The program also offers specialized skill upgrades, including MASS timber construction, scaffold erection, and extensive safety training for both commercial and residential construction careers. They also offer classes in wielding for those interested in a field in which there is a great need in Connecticut.
Rep. Rutigliano also met with members of the Local 326 legislative council to discuss policy priorities and potential legislation ahead of the 2026 legislative session, with a focus on job training and supporting Connecticut’s skilled trades.