Unemployment among construction workers nationwide is running close to 20 percent. In New York City, many construction workers are looking to distinguish themselves from other unemployed workers in the same field by undertaking additional training, including asbestos abatement education.

Asbestos removal is an important part of construction and renovation, as many older buildings contain the deadly substance. Asbestos is known to cause mesothelioma, among other health problems.

Getting into the construction trade in New York City is very competitive. Last year during a three-day period in February, over 2,500 people applied for apprenticeships in the New York City Construction Unions. Out of the entire applicant pool, only 200 people were selected. This year, even fewer applicants will be selected; officials say they plan to limit acceptance to 150 people in order to ensure that there is enough work to go around.

There is certainly non-union work available for construction workers in New York City, but the majority of projects will be taken by the unions due to federal regulations.

Some construction hopefuls, including 21-year old Brandon Ingram, hope to distinguish themselves from the competition by furthering their education. Each weekday morning, Ingram attends a class on asbestos abatement in East Harlem. He also studies carpentry and plumbing in Soho.

Ingram says that he thinks having “green” training will help him land a job, and ensure that he can secure a long-term career in the construction field.

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