John Merlino supports Construction Skills because a career can change the future of a family. A chance to learn a trade, earn a living, and build toward greater stability gives the American dream a practical foundation.
That belief brought John C. Merlino of William Schwitzer & Associates to the 2026 Building Futures Awards. He attended as a proud supporter of the organization and its work creating opportunities for future members of New York City’s union construction workforce.
The 2026 Building Futures Awards marked 25 years of Construction Skills. For John, supporting that mission means helping more New Yorkers pursue the skills and opportunities behind a lasting career. Construction Skills
A Career Begins With Access
New York’s buildings reflect the work of people whose names rarely appear on the finished project. Their skill and effort become part of the places where families live, children learn, and businesses grow.
For someone hoping to join that workforce, ambition is a starting point. Access to preparation and a route into the industry matter, too.
The Edward J. Malloy Initiative for Construction Skills helps NYC residents prepare for entry into the unionized building trades. Its mission connects career opportunities with the broader goals of health benefits, retirement security, and financial stability. Construction Skills
Those goals help explain the importance of John’s support. A construction career represents years of learning and work, with the potential to shape a household’s future.
Preparing New Yorkers for the Trades
Construction Skills serves people at different starting points. Its Youth Program works with NYC public high school seniors, including through partnerships with career and technical education schools. Its Adult Program serves eligible adult residents of the five boroughs. Construction Skills
The organization’s pre-apprenticeship curriculum combines classroom learning with practical experience. Subjects include construction math, blueprint reading, tools, and workplace readiness. Participants also gain exposure to the expectations of apprenticeship and the construction workplace. Construction Skills
That preparation gives substance to the idea of opportunity. It connects an interest in construction with a structured learning experience and a clearer understanding of the work ahead.
An Apprenticeship Builds Toward a Career
Pre-apprenticeship is preparation for a further stage of learning. Construction Skills describes union apprenticeship opportunities that combine classroom education with paid work experience across a range of trades. Construction Skills
This structure recognizes that skilled construction work takes time to learn. Knowledge grows through instruction, practice, and experience on the job.
For a new worker, earning while developing those skills can make a meaningful difference. The larger goal is progress toward a career with room to grow. Individual experiences and outcomes vary, but the opportunity to begin that journey matters.
Why John Merlino Supports Construction Skills
John’s message about the event centered on helping the organization grow and helping future members pursue the American dream. His attendance reflected support for the people preparing to enter an industry that plays an essential role in New York City.
The organization reports more than 2,752 NYC residents placed into union apprenticeship programs on its About page. Behind that figure are people working toward their own goals, with different backgrounds and reasons for choosing the trades. Construction Skills
At William Schwitzer & Associates, advocacy for injured individuals includes construction workers whose livelihoods depend on demanding physical work. Supporting access to construction careers reflects respect for the people who build the city and the futures they hope to create.
Building Futures for the Next Generation
The American dream takes a different shape in every household. For some, it means starting a skilled career. For others, it means supporting children, building savings, or looking toward retirement with greater confidence.
John Merlino supports Construction Skills with those possibilities in mind. His participation in the 2026 Building Futures Awards reflects a commitment to the organization’s future and to New Yorkers ready to build their own.
William Schwitzer & Associates is proud to recognize John’s support and the work of Construction Skills in opening doors for the next generation of construction professionals.
Important:
This information is only a general guide and is NOT LEGAL ADVICE. Each case is different. The best option is to call our offices for specialized help, call (212) 683-3800 and contact William Schwitzer & Associates for legal assistance.
The images shown in this blog are for illustrative purposes only.
