More than 20 students are learning construction and welding skills on Saturdays as part of a new year-round program offered through the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor.

The LA County students have limited opportunities to participate in hands-on classes and technical training. By meeting on Saturdays, students have access to learning not available in the weekday schedule at their schools.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor partners on the program with Dynamic Education, which guides students through construction projects like assembling a wood shed. When the program ends in June, the students will have the opportunity to use their newfound trades knowledge and skill to test for industry-based credentials.

“I feel like it will be awesome for me to use these skills and abilities to help around the house for myself and my family,” said Damien Winfrey, a construction program participant. “If something breaks, I have these skills to repair them.”

The program is funded by Harbor Freight Tools for Schools.