Building Bridges: A Testimonial from Construction Junction on Partnering with CEO Pittsburgh

Sep 02, 2024   |  By Tiffany Elder

Success is often built on solid partnerships, trust, and shared values. For Construction Junction, a leading player in the construction industry, this has undoubtedly been the case in their collaboration with Pittsburgh's Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) office. We had the pleasure of hearing from Melissa Mongelli, the General Manager of Construction Junction, to discuss this employment partnership and how it has positively impacted their business and work culture through reentry services.

What initially drew you to partner with CEO?

We had tried to create a relationship many times before, but it wasn’t until I linked up with Marissa and Louis (CEO staff) that it became an ongoing source for us! I believe in your mission!

How would you describe the overall experience of partnering with our program?

Positive experience with the current clients. We have the best success rate with CEO clients! They stay longer than any other program I have worked with!

Can you share any memorable moments that stand out from working with our participants?

It’s the ongoing employment we have had with our current CEO staff. Ernest, LaRue, Jeff, and Thomas are all kind, polite, and hardworking individuals! It’s nice to have people you can count on!

In what ways has this partnership impacted your company and work culture?

Second chances and the consistency of attendance and work ethic!

What qualities do you see in CEO participants that make them reliable employees?

They have a better support system in this program, which makes them want to succeed and continue working!

What does this partnership mean to you personally and professionally?

It personally gives me a sense of pride of what I am doing to make a difference in this world!

If you could advise other employers considering working with reentry programs, what would it be?

Quit thinking they will be “problem children.” Be a solution to the problem! Help people find their way, and you will have loyal employees who are truly grateful for being given a second chance! Keep up the good work!

Building strong partnerships is more than just collaboration. Creating opportunities, cultivating trust, and making a lasting impact. Construction Junction's experience with CEO Pittsburgh highlights the importance of working together to support individuals in their reentry journeys. Companies can build a loyal and dedicated workforce by focusing on shared values and embracing fair chances. Partnerships like this remind us that we all succeed when we invest in people.