NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) – The ‘What’s Next: Removing Barriers for Success’ program is hosting a sign up event is Monday, April 8 in Newport News.

The program offers free trade classes for residents in Hampton Roads, including training for welding, HVAC, and commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs).

The open house is from 5-7p.m.  at the Achievable Dream location on 5720 Marshall Avenue.

The program was created by former Newport News Superintendent Doctor Ashby Kilgore and Newport News Councilman John Eley III. 

“Today, we are having our ‘What’s Next’ recruiting session. We know, due to the unforeseen circumstances in Baltimore … so much cargo is coming to the Hampton Roads area. There’s a big need for CDL drivers. We’re pushing for CDL drivers. We are pushing for all trades, especially the maritime industry. We’re excited to be able to offer these courses,” said the South District 3 councilman. 

Sammy Mitchell Jr. recently completed the program and obtained his CDL certification.

“Prior to the program, I was struggling in finding employment because I have a criminal record. It was hard for me to find employment and it was getting discouraging. Then I reached out to the ‘What’s Next’ program. They showed me the proper steps. I got my CDL in a month’s time. They sent me to school for free, gave me the grant. I just got my first job offer for $100,000.”

Mitchell is encouraging others to sign up for the courses. 

“My family is proud of me! It’s a good feeling … making them proud. They see me go through all the incarcerations to doing something that makes them proud. It makes me proud. I can finally say I made them happy!”

Eley adds, “Bring your resume. Come energize it. Today is an exciting day for not just Newport News, but the entire Hampton Roads area!”

The open house will also offer a small business workshop in partnership with Newport News Economic Development and Bank of America. 

“We’re going to be talking about getting grants that the city has. We’re going to be talking about loans including how do you get a business loan. That’s going to be all questions that our experts at Bank of America are going to come help citizens understand,” Eley said.

The next open house is April 29 from 5-7p.m.  at Achievable Dream Academy on 5720 Marshall Avenue.

You can read more about the program here.