On February 14th, something powerful happened in Utah. At a special check presentation event with Utah Women in the Trades (UWIT) and the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation, we celebrated an important step toward creating a more inclusive and accessible pathway to high-paying, stable careers in the trades for justice-impacted women and allies. Thanks to a new grant of $20,000 from Rocky Mountain Power Foundation, a dedicated cohort will receive pre-apprenticeship training through UWIT’s Apprenticeship Readiness Program (ARP), with direct support from Rasa Legal to help clear criminal records that often stand in the way of employment.
A Partnership That Changes Lives
At Rasa Legal, we believe that a person’s past should not define their future. That’s why we’re proud to partner with UWIT and the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation to remove legal barriers that keep talented individuals from entering the workforce. Through this collaboration, Rasa will provide access to the eligibility tool and expungement services for the select cohort of justice-impacted individuals.
UWIT has long been committed to helping more individuals enter skilled trades. Their 12-to-15 week pre-apprenticeship program provides participants with hands-on training, industry certifications, and connections to local labor unions and employers. By adding record clearance services to the program, we’re giving participants a real chance at overcoming employment restrictions and securing long-term careers.
Why This Matters for Workforce Development
The skilled trades industry is facing a labor shortage, with thousands of job openings in Utah alone. Many of these jobs offer strong wages, benefits, and career advancement opportunities, yet they remain out of reach for people with a criminal record—even when they have the skills and experience to excel.
With this grant-funded initiative, we’re not just helping individuals—we’re creating a model for workforce development that other industries can follow. By providing both training and legal support, we’re breaking down barriers and opening doors to sustainable careers.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning. Our partnership with UWIT is a step toward a future where more justice-impacted individuals can access life-changing job opportunities. We hope to expand this model and inspire other organizations to invest in second chances.
We’re grateful to UWIT and Rocky Mountain Power for their commitment to making this vision a reality. Together, we’re proving that when we remove barriers and invest in people, we build a stronger, more inclusive workforce for everyone.
If you or someone you know could benefit from record clearance and a pathway into the trades, learn more about UWIT’s Apprenticeship Readiness Program and Rasa Legal’s services by reaching out to us today!
