Montclair Launches NJ’s First Public University Facilities Apprenticeship Program

Montclair State University has launched New Jersey’s first public university facilities apprenticeship program, offering employees specialized training in plumbing, electrical and HVAC trades. This groundbreaking initiative supports career advancement for internal staff and establishes a pipeline of skilled workers ready and prepared for new opportunities at the University.

This apprenticeship initiative reflects Montclair’s broader mission to support both academic and professional development by offering diverse pathways for learning and career advancement, setting a precedent for facilities workforce training across the state.

Montclair’s first apprentices:

• Daniel Miller, Plumber track
• Jhoan Nogueira, HVAC track
• David Lobafaro, HVAC track
• Kevin Rizzo, Electrician track

The apprentices come from diverse backgrounds within the University’s Facilities Department, including groundskeeping, building maintenance and mechanical work. Each expressed a strong desire to gain the skills needed to transition into the trades, says Training and Development Manager Shakira Jackson. 

Exemplifying their goals, Miller has been with Montclair for nearly 20 years. Starting his journey as a moving service worker, Miller has always been passionate about becoming a plumber. Miller is the recipient of the John W. Dennis Award, which honors an employee who has demonstrated exceptional abilities to lead, serve, inspire and collaborate with broad impact.

The apprentices each shared that they appreciated the opportunity to advance and learn new skills. “I find joy in repairing, troubleshooting and completing tasks,” said Rizzo. Nogueira, a senior repairer in HVAC operations, began studying on his own and looks forward to earning his HVAC license through the program.

At Montclair, we’re constantly innovating to create distinct pathways for the learners of tomorrow. We take our commitment to education, and credentialing, very seriously. And it extends to every part of the University. I’m really excited to see this great learning program embedded within our Facilities operations as it exemplifies this mindset,” says President Jonathan Koppell.

The apprentices will attend evening technical classes at Passaic County Technical Institute while working on campus during the day. They will be mentored by:

• Patrick Hickey, Assistant Supervisor Building Repairs, Plumbing Services
• Kevin Johnson, Supervisor Building Repairs II, Mechanical Maintenance
• Keith Benjamin, Mechanical Equipment Specialist, HVAC Operations
• Kevin Lepore, Building Management Services Specialist 3, Electrical Services Supervisor

After completing the four-year program, the apprentices will be eligible to earn Journeyman status, a nationally recognized certification in their respective trades.

Vice President for University Facilities Shawn Connolly says Montclair was eager to launch the program to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers as veteran employees retire. “This program aligns with the University’s mission to support both academic and professional growth,” Connolly says.

The apprentices are affiliated with the International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers bargaining unit. Montclair’s program is registered through the U.S. Department of Labor.

Learn more about the Montclair State University Facilities Apprenticeship Program.