Jumpstart a successful career in the building trades by taking this paid 2-week pre-apprenticeship program designed for young adults aged 18–24.
Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Experience
Receive hands-on training and earn certifications to prepare for a career in the building trades.
Participants will be equipped with practical skills and a strong foundation in the trades, earning NCCER, OSHA 10, and ATSSA Flagger certifications by completion, and gain valuable insights into apprenticeship opportunities to further their career paths.
This pre-apprenticeship program is developed in partnership between the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) and the Dawson Technical Institute of Kennedy-King College, to provide participants with essential industry knowledge and practical skills.
Languages offered: This program is instructed in English, but it is possible that an instructor will be bilingual. Intermediate English language experience recommended (B1, B2)
Who Should Attend
Individuals interested in hands-on learning and are curious about what it takes to start a career in the building trades.
You must meet the following requirements:
- Resident of the City of Chicago
- Age 18-24
Why Choose A Career In The Trades?
You enjoy working with your hands, not just sitting at a desk
If sitting in an office all day isn’t your thing, the trades offer hands-on work where you get to build, fix, and create real things that make an impact.
A variety of career options
From construction, electrical work, welding, plumbing, to HVAC, there’s a trade that fits your interests. The skills you develop in the trades—like problem-solving, teamwork, and technical expertise—are highly transferable, opening doors to careers in project management, engineering, entrepreneurship, and beyond. Plus, many trades offer the chance to start your own business or move up into leadership roles.
Job security
Skilled tradespeople are in high demand, and that’s not changing anytime soon. As older workers retire, companies are looking for the next generation of electricians, carpenters, and more.
What This Program Includes
- Gain knowledge in workplace safety
- Learn to recognize and prevent common hazards
- Develop hands-on carpentry skills
- Receive introductory education in Construction Drawing, Hand Tools, Material Handling, and Power Tools.
- Master the skills required to control traffic safely in work zones.
Certifications you will complete: (See FAQ section below for details)
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction Certification
- ATSSA Flagger Certification
- NCCER Construction Carpentry Certification
Program Takeaways
Participants will learn practical skills, earn certifications, and gain valuable insights into apprenticeship opportunities, all of which provide a strong foundation to launch their career in the trades.
Timeline
Applications open: March 24, 2025
Applications close: May 16, 2025
Applicants notified by: May 27, 2025
Program dates: June 16-27, 2025
Classes run Monday through Friday, from 9a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost
Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Experience is a FREE program. Participants will receive a $500 stipend.
If you find programs like these valuable, please consider donating to the CAC to help us create more of them!
How to Apply
- Complete this application form
- Receive a confirmation of submission
- Hear from a member of our team to schedule a brief phone screening
- Keep an eye on your email for information like acceptance and waitlist status.
For more information, please contact [email protected]
FAQ
There is no charge to participate in the pilot iteration of the Pre-Apprenticeship Trades Experience. In fact, participants will be given a $500 stipend and lunch will be provided each session along with materials.
Yes. To complete the certification process for each individual certification, you must attend all sessions.
OSHA 10-Hour Construction Certification: Gain foundational knowledge in workplace safety, learning to recognize and prevent common hazards on construction sites. This certification ensures you're well-versed in OSHA standards, promoting a safer work environment.
ATSSA Flagger Certification: Master the skills required to control traffic safely in work zones. This course covers standard flagging procedures, proper use of signaling devices, and effective communication techniques to protect both workers and the public.
NCCER Construction Carpentry Certification: Develop hands-on carpentry skills, from basic framing to advanced finish work. This certification provides comprehensive training aligned with industry standards, preparing you for a successful career in carpentry. Title of certs received:
- Basic Safety (Construction Site Safety Orientation)
- Introduction to Construction Drawing
- Introduction to Hand Tools
- Introduction to Material Handling
- Introduction to Power Tools
Sponsors
Sandra Stitzlein - Spandrels, 2023
