On The Job Training Supportive Services Program

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) and Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) are seeking qualified organizations to provide an On the Job Training Supportive Services Program focused on building career opportunities in the heavy highway industry. The Request for Proposals (RFP) aims to increase participation of minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals in federal-aid highway projects through comprehensive training and placement services. Specific deliverables include providing educational experiences, work maturity skills, High School Equivalency attainment, tools and equipment training, vocational training, and national certifications. The program requires serving 12 new participants in each of three geographic areas (St. Louis, Kansas City, and outstate), with additional support for one former graduate per area. Evaluation criteria include experience (25 points), proposed method of performance (20 points), references (12 points), in-kind contributions (15 points), partnerships (18 points), and past placement success (10 points). Proposals are due by July 12, 2023, at 2:00 PM CDT and can be submitted electronically through MissouriBUYS or by mail. The contract period runs from the date of award through October 31, 2024, with an option for one additional one-year renewal.

The RFP strongly encourages minority business enterprise (MBE) and women business enterprise (WBE) participation, with target goals of 10% MBE and 5% WBE through subcontractors, suppliers, or joint ventures. The program is open to various organizations capable of providing comprehensive job training and placement services in the heavy highway construction industry. Funding for the program comes from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), with a total budget of $185,000 divided into three geographic awards: $61,666.67 each for the St. Louis and Kansas City areas (within 45 miles of their respective MoDOT district offices), and $61,666.66 for outstate areas. The budget includes allocations for staff personnel, student wages, travel and childcare assistance, administrative expenses, tools and safety equipment, and student supplies and training. Additional points will be awarded to entities that provide in-kind and matching funding. The program aims to achieve a 90% graduation rate and a 60% placement rate with heavy highway employers, with a focus on providing comprehensive support to help participants enter long-term employment in the construction industry.