DENVER -- The Mi Casa Resource Center is using local, state, and federal grant dollars to help get under- or unemployed candidates ready to take advantage of impending construction jobs.

"There's a huge interest," said Mi Casa trainer Sharon Vasquez. "And of course, with the economic system as it is right now, with so many people out of work, a lot of individuals are having to look at a career change."

Eighteen students started enrolling in December, before hundreds of thousands of jobs were shed nationwide in January and February.

The class at 646 Mariposa St. in Denver started Monday and is a collaboration between the Emily Griffith Opportunity School, the Construction Industry Training Council and Mi Casa.

"I think it's wonderful," said Tammeka Adams, a mother of five who was attending the free class. "I'm more of a homemaker. So, construction is new for me. But, to learn how to bid on the government contracts for my own business -- I'm here!"

The eight-week course will provide certification in OSHA safety rules, forklift use, CPR/First Aid, and solar project installation.

"I'm looking to go towards the solar industry," said Michael Hartzog. "And this is a great opportunity for me. Well, you know when you've been out of the workforce for a while -- I've been out of the workforce for like a year -- you really get anxious. I just hope everything works out."

The timing appears perfect.

When the class finished, the Colorado Department of Transportation should be close to starting work on a list of 48 projects that can start this spring or summer thanks to a $317 million windfall from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

"It's going to boost us up to our funding levels of where we should be. But the problem is, it is only a one-year shot and it's going to fix this problem for one year only," said Mindy Crane, CDOT spokeswoman. "You can't get a job tomorrow. But be patient and it'll be just a few months out."

The department has to spend 50 percent of its stimulus funds within 120 days. The 48 identified jobs on the wish list have to be advertised then contractor bids accepted before work can begin in an estimated six weeks.

To learn more about the program, go to MicasaResourceCenter.org.