Trades Pre- Apprenticeship Experience

Jumpstart a successful career in the building trades by taking this paid 2-week pre-apprenticeship program designed for young adults aged 18–24.

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.