Hire Skilled Talent.
Strengthen Your Workforce.
Expand Opportunity.
Uplift Solutions connects Philadelphia employers with credentialed HVAC and CDL graduates who are motivated, trained, and ready to contribute from day one.
Contact Us to HireLearn More
More Than a Resume — A Full Support System
Uplift Solutions prepares justice-involved individuals not just with technical skills, but with life skills, case management, and wraparound reentry support designed to help them thrive long-term on the job.
With over 1,000 graduates, a 2% recidivism rate, and 550+ careers created in the Philadelphia region, Uplift has a proven track record of preparing people for lasting employment.
When you hire an Uplift graduate, you're backed by a team that remains engaged — supporting both the employer and the employee through the transition.
- Industry-recognized technical certifications
- Job readiness and professional skills training
- Case management and reentry support
- Ongoing employer and graduate follow-up
- A 2% recidivism rate — proof our model works
- Rooted in and committed to Philadelphia
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EMPLOYER FAQ
Common Questions from Hiring Partners
Why should I hire Uplift graduates?
Uplift graduates bring verified credentials, strong work ethic, and a high motivation to succeed. Research consistently shows that second-chance employees perform on par with or better than other hires — and they stay longer. Here’s what the data says:
- 85% of HR leaders say employees with criminal records perform the same as or better than other employees — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
- Lower turnover: Second-chance hires show stronger retention, loyalty, and engagement, saving companies significant rehiring costs — KCMA
- Tax savings: Employers may qualify for the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) when hiring qualified ex-felons
- Community impact: Stable employment is one of the strongest predictors of reduced recidivism — your hire strengthens Philadelphia
- Ongoing support: When you hire an Uplift graduate, our team stays engaged — supporting both you and the employee after placement
What talent is available?
We have two credentialed talent pipelines ready for Philadelphia employers:
- HVAC Graduates — Certified with EPA 608 Type I & Universal, Electrical Training, Gas Heat Installation, and Refrigeration Charging credentials. Trained and ready for entry-level HVAC roles.
- CDL Graduates — Class B permitted and licensed after an 8-week program covering vehicle inspections, safety systems, and hands-on driving. Ready for roles with SEPTA, delivery companies, and other local employers.
All graduates also complete life skills training, interview coaching, and conflict resolution before they ever walk through your door.
How do I connect with someone today?
Reach out directly to our Manager of Workforce Partnerships:
Patrick Jackson Keough
Manager, Workforce Partnerships
patrick.keough@upliftsolutions.org
You can also use the Contact Us to Hire button at the top of this page to send a message directly.
Certified. Trained. Ready to Work.
Uplift's HVAC graduates complete hands-on training and leave with industry-recognized credentials covering electrical systems, heating equipment, and refrigerant handling — core competencies for entry-level HVAC roles.
All graduates earn:Workforce Readiness / Life Skills • EPA 608 Type I & Universal • Electrical Training Certification (Basic) • Gas Heat Installation & Components • Refrigeration Charging Procedures
Time permitting, participants also earn: Gas Track Pipe • Rinnai Tankless Water Heater • A2L Refrigerant
Licensed. Prepared. Ready to Drive.
Uplift's CDL graduates complete an 8-week Class B training program that blends life skills, permit preparation, classroom instruction, and hands-on driving experience. Graduates leave prepared to earn their Class B permit and license and pursue driving roles with employers such as SEPTA and local and national delivery companies.
Core training includes: Job readiness & interview coaching • Conflict resolution & workplace emotional management • Class B pre & post-trip inspections • Safety systems & protocols • Safe Class B operating procedures • Vehicle malfunction recognition • CDL permit test preparation • Hands-on Class B vehicle operation
Graduates leave with: Class B Permit • Class B License • Employment support for roles with SEPTA, delivery companies, and local employers
| CERTIFICATION / TRAINING | SKILLS COVERED | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
| Workforce Readiness / Life Skills | Interview coaching, workplace behavior, conflict resolution, emotional regulation | CORE |
| CDL Permit Preparation | Permit test prep, non-driving compliance, foundational Class B knowledge | CORE |
| Vehicle Inspection Training | Pre-trip and post-trip inspections, safety checks | CORE |
| Safety Systems & Protocols | Safe operation procedures, compliance, reporting malfunctions | CORE |
| Hands-On Class B Operation | Practical vehicle operation, advanced CMV Class B driving lessons | CORE |
| Class B Permit | Industry-required permit attainment | OUTCOME |
| Class B License | License attainment and job placement support | OUTCOME |
Why Second-Chance Hiring Works
Employers across the country are turning to second-chance hiring to address persistent labor shortages, reduce turnover, and build stronger workplace cultures. The data consistently backs it up.
85% of HR leaders and 81% of business leaders say employees with criminal records perform the same as or better than other employees.
— U.S. Chamber of Commerce, "The Workforce Impact of Second-Chance Hiring"Stable employment is one of the strongest predictors of reduced recidivism — hiring people with conviction histories benefits not just the individual, but the entire community.
— Vera Institute of Justice, "Hiring People with Conviction Histories Benefits Everyone"Second-chance employees often demonstrate lower turnover rates, stronger loyalty, and higher engagement — saving companies significant recruiting and training costs.
— KCMA, "Second-Chance Hiring: How It Can Help Solve Your Labor Problems"Expand Your Talent Pool
Roughly 1 in 3 American adults has a criminal record — that's a vast, underutilized workforce with skills and drive.
Reduce Turnover
Second-chance hires consistently show strong retention, loyalty, and motivation — reducing costly rehiring cycles.
Tax Incentives
Employers may qualify for the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) when hiring qualified ex-felons.
Strengthen Philadelphia
Employment is a cornerstone of community safety. Hiring locally creates lasting impact in our city.
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Ready to Hire an Uplift Graduate?
Connect with us to discuss your workforce needs and learn how Uplift graduates can help fill your HVAC and CDL roles in Philadelphia.