WISDOM FROM THE PAST TO BUILD OUR FUTURE!!!
RECENT WORK
SANKOFA CONSTRUCTION
THE OWNER
Jerry Atsutse Fosu is an American African that has created an economically diverse plan that will help to bring equality of opportunity, upward mobility and economic fairness to the Construction industry. Jerry was born in Newark, NJ however that is not where he remained. With parents of Ghanian heritage Jerry was blessed with the opportunity to live abroad during many of his formative years. In Ghana he was immersed in a rich tapestry of traditions, community values, and close-knit family bonds.
Education in Ghana was rigorous and highly valued, with a focus on academic excellence and discipline. Acquiring a top-notch education in Newark was not as easily accessible as it was in Ghana. Despite the challenges Jerry continued to be voracious in his acquisition of knowledge. From 2002 through 2011 he acquired industry-recognized certifications, job readiness skills, and practical experience through the completion of the Job Corps Program. He also received a Certificate of Advanced training at the International Masonry Institute. Using his experience and expertise, he began offering construction services to the surrounding communities. Jerry also saw the need of the people.
He began providing employment and training opportunities to the residents of the same under-served communities that he provided construction services to. Seeing firsthand the lack of opportunities for minorities and women in the construction industry, he knew something had to be done. In 2021, Jerry created a 5-volume series of educational construction/carpentry books. This collection of textbooks is the foundation upon which the Sankofa Construction LLC. Registered Apprenticeship was created.
THE COMPANY & THE APPRENTICESHIP
In 2012, Sankofa Construction LLC was created and began hiring local residents as laborers. The vision of the company was and continues to be building for the community by the community. The company has been providing exceptional service to Newark residents and its surrounding areas for over 12 yrs.
The construction industry plays a vital role in our economy by providing worldwide job security and the development of economies that drive long term growth. However, this sector is facing significant challenges due to a shortage of skilled labor. Sankofa Construction’s NJ DOL Registered Apprenticeship program bridges the gap between the needs of the construction industry and needs of the communities we serve.
This program is a tried-and-true method to increase lifetime earnings and provide a pathway to a sustainable career. The apprenticeship provides equal access to minorities and women by addressing the specific needs and goals each participant.
According to the United States Department of Labor, “90 percent of apprentices who complete an apprenticeship retain employment, with an annual salary of $80,000 and higher.
In 2012, Sankofa Construction LLC was created and began hiring local residents as laborers. The vision of the company was and continues to be building for the community by the community. The company has been providing exceptional service to Newark residents and its surrounding areas for over 12 yrs.
The construction industry plays a vital role in our economy by providing worldwide job security and the development of economies that drive long term growth. However, this sector is facing significant challenges due to a shortage of skilled labor. Sankofa Construction’s NJ DOL Registered Apprenticeship program bridges the gap between the needs of the construction industry and needs of the communities we serve.
This program is a tried-and-true method to increase lifetime earnings and provide a pathway to a sustainable career.
THE MISSION
At Sankofa Construction LLC, our motto is “Wisdom from the past; to build our future”. By combining years of expertise and knowledge with modern educational practices, Jerry’s created an equitable and effective network that truly serves and uplifts underserved communities. The construction industry faces a variety of challenges as it looks toward a future driven by technological, environmental, economic, and social factors. Jerry’s mantra is F.T.J (Fair, Transparent and Just). By incorporating these standards throughout the company, Sankofa Construction advocates for policies that promote fair hiring practices through transparency. Our employer partners provide mentorships, internships, and networking opportunities to residents of underserved communities. Each resident gains valuable experiences & professional connections through our network which drives economic development and creates pathways to higher paying careers and advanced credentials.
MEET THE TEAM
The Sankofa Management Team is responsible for leading the organization and delivering projects in a safe, efficient, economical and sustainable manner. Each of these leaders is dedicated to our mission to make a positive impact in the lives of program participants and contribute to the development of a skilled and diverse workforce in the construction industry
Jerry A. Fosu
Owner and CEO
Jerry A. Fosu serves as the Owner and CEO for Sankofa Construction LLC. As Owner and CEO, Jerry is responsible for establishing the company’s long-term vision and mission, client/contractor relations and market expansion; both domestic and international. Since the launch of Sankofa Construction LLC in 2012, Jerry has been a one-man army. From the initial planning and legal considerations of Sankofa Construction LLC to securing funding, branding a company identity and creating a skilled workforce; Jerry has been the backbone of Sankofa Construction. Jerry is a versatile executive with significant international experience and a proven track record of driving growth and creation across multiple trades. He brings more than 20 years of insight and experience to Sankofa Construction’s business, strategy and operations. From 2002 to 2011, Jerry acquired industry-recognized certifications, job readiness skills, and practical experience with the completion of the Job Corps Program. He also received a Certificate of Advanced training at the International Masonry Institute.
Angela L. Jones
Director of Corporate Development & Sustainability
Angela L. Jones serves Director of Corporate Development & Sustainability for Sankofa Construction LLC. As Director of Corporate Development & Sustainability for Sankofa Construction LLC, Angela is responsible for strategic planning and growth, partnerships and alliances, CSR (corporate social responsibility) and the integration of sustainability and business strategy. Prior to assuming her current position, Angela was COO of Avery Construction, with regional oversight for business development and operations. Since joining Sankofa Construction, she has held a variety of roles from team management to the development of strategic sustainability strategies and policies. Angela holds a Bachelor’s degree in Construction Project Management from the University of North Florida.
To Be named
Director of Project Execution
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Fred Frost
Director of Veteran’s Outreach & Re-Entry Programs
Fred Frost has been a public servant for most of his adult life and his earlier years he started out as a New York City Correction Officer where He worked in one of the most challenging facilities. After From their he transferred over to the NYC Police Department where He became a Police Officer. After many years of dedicated service, he left the police force and got more involved in the political arena, working closely with Al Sharpton, and the National Action Network, to better the lives of the underprivileged in New York City. In 2010 He got directly involved in the fight to address the housing crisis in New York City when be opened up a facility Brooklyn, where he housed 40 individuals, most of which were individuals coming out of prison, and individuals referred by the HRA, who needed immediate housing. He was able to not only provide housing, but he was also able to find employment for all of the residents in his facility. To further enhance his ability to help those most in need of assistance, he became a CASAC counselor in NYC, while also completing a course in New Jersey on housing individuals suffering from substance abuse. In 2022 Mr. Frost was introduced to Mr. Fosu, understanding the vision of Sankofa Builder became members of the organization bring his knowledge with dealing reentry candidates and understanding the resources needed became a great fit.
Jessica Durant
Chief Human Resources Officer
Jessica was employed at Shaw Divorce & Family Law and the Middlesex County Family Court. She held various roles such as Judiciary Clerk, Child Support Investigator, DNA Coordinator, and Domestic Violence Investigator. She holds an Associate degree in Business Administration, and a Paralegal Studies Certificate. She is also a Certified Notary Signing Agent in the state of New Jersey. Bring her knowledge with handlining people she understands many of the needs of the community
To be Named
Chief Financial Officer