In today’s economy, it is remarkable what organizations can do when they work together.  Through the combined generosity of CARE Ownership, The Dow Chemical Company, InsulRight, and the labor of students learning the construction trade at the Pittsburgh Job Corps Center, an outstanding effort is being made to restore derelict homes in the city. 

Recently, The Dow Chemical Company conducted a training session on their foam insulation installation at a property on the North Side that was gutted and being rehabilitated for occupancy. 

Linda Schultz, project manager for CARE Ownership said, “Repairing and improving this apartment building will increase the stability of the whole community, positively impacting multiple families, taxpayers, and property owners in a wide area. This endeavor also provides hands-on experience for the next generation of home builders currently training at Job Corps.”

Joe Morrone, Project Manager for InsulRight, a leading local contractor, said, “My company never did much training with youth.  Seeing the professionalism and level of commitment from the Pittsburgh Job Corps weatherization students is impressive.  I like the fact that they have industry certification that provides proof of training.”  He realizes that there is a lot of interest in learning first hand from experts about the DOW products and their uses.  Mr. Morrone will be coming to the Job Corps Center to talk about his involvement in the construction industry.

Gary Bauer, energy expert and Senior Account Manager of Styrofoam Brand Products for Dow said that “there is nothing more in the spotlight these days than weatherization and that these students are the new generation preparing for this career. These students are helping to give the opportunity for a family to live a good life in a nice environment and that makes us all feel good.”  His advice to the students is to learn the trade well.

 “Everyone is working to create a livable space to enhance the neighborhood,” said Michael Brink, weatherization instructor at the Pittsburgh Job Corp Center.  Thanks to products provided by Dow, Job Corps students received first-hand experience in home improvement by installing STYROFOAM spray polyurethane foam insulation in the interior cavity wall. Tony Mascipinto, North American Sales Development Leader for Dow said,  “This two-component spray-applied foam fills cavities, cracks and crevices, sealing against uncontrolled air leakage and helping maintain consistent, comfortable indoor temperatures.” 

“The energy and enthusiasm that this project is generating is wonderful.  Students are engaged in real time learning and put pride into their work,” said Karen Bobick, construction Work Based Learning coordinator. “With professionals from The Dow Chemical Company and InsulRight leading the way, students develop confidence in themselves and competence in their skills,” she said.

Linda Schultz, board president and Project Manager for CARE Ownership, said, “A major part of the project is teaching the new owner financial and renovation skills in order to manage the property.”  Their current candidate entered the program a year ago and since this time has gained the necessary knowledge to help effectively manage the property from a financial perspective along with the renovation skills needed to maintain it.

 CARE Ownership is a non-profit established five years ago to renovate multi-family properties that were blights on city neighborhoods. Dow Building Solutions is a leader in complete insulation systems, insulation products, sealants, and adhesives whose focus is to improve energy efficiency in buildings today and the future.

Job Corps is a U.S. Depart. of Labor funded career technical training facility for at risk youth ages 16-24.