news release
On June 4th, 2026, Youth Guidance celebrated its largest graduating class to date as 22 students completed the Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Program at the organization’s newly renovated Vero Beach facility. The Class of 2026 completed 144 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on training over an eight-month period. Students earned industry certifications and gained foundational skills across multiple trades, including carpentry, plumbing, electric, HVAC, and welding.
These accomplishments were highlighted during the ceremony featuring remarks from Youth Guidance Executive Director Phil Barnes and a keynote by the School District of Indian River County Superintendent Dr. David K. Moore.
In a packed room of families and guests, Dr. Moore celebrated the graduates’ determination and highlighted the impact of the Construction Trades Program, which equips students with the skills, opportunities, and confidence to build careers while strengthening the workforce of Indian River County.
“Watching students turn hard work and determination into real opportunities is one of the greatest rewards of this job. Youth Guidance graduates have earned accomplishments they can be proud of, and their success is a testament to the power of perseverance, skill development, and believing in their future.”
Diplomas were presented by Construction Trades Director Jim Buttonow, whose dedication and strong leadership contributed to the success of the Class of 2026.
He will be completing his journeyman training with Florida Training Services.
Since the program’s inception, the following milestones have been achieved:
- 88 teenagers and young adults earned industry certifications.
- 25 graduates (ages 18 and up) obtained employment in the trades.
- 20 graduates (ages 18 and up) enrolled in college, trade school, or the armed forces.
The Youth Guidance Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship program is made possible by The Blair Family Foundation, Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee, United Way of Indian River County, the PNC Foundation, and community supporters.
Program partners include: The Indian River County School District, and Florida Training Services, Inc.
Beginning in Fall 2026, Florida Training Services, Inc. plans to launch an electrical apprenticeship program in the classroom and lab space at the Youth Guidance facility, expanding hands-on career training and workforce development opportunities for local students and young adults, with plans to add plumbing apprenticeships in the next year.
Applications are currently open for the next Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship class, which will begin in September 2026. The program is provided at no cost to students thanks to the generosity of the Indian River County community. To learn more and apply visit www.youthguidanceprogram.org or call 772-492-3933.
About Youth Guidance:
Youth Guidance is dedicated to enriching the lives of Indian River County youth through mentoring relationships that build trust, self-esteem, and pathways to academic and career success. Founded in 1973, Youth Guidance provides three key programs to help children, teenagers, and young adults (ages 6-24) break the cycle of poverty, including: The Pathways Afterschool Program, the Summer Enrichment Program, and the Pre-Apprenticeship Program, which includes construction trades and culinary arts training. If you are interested in supporting or learning more about Youth Guidance, please call (772) 492-3933, or visit http://www.youthguidanceprogram.org.
Indian River Guardian 