Pathway to Building Trades

This hands-on, “earn while you learn” program introduces Des Moines area teens to the Building Trades through a summer long Apprenticeship Readiness Program. Much like a true registered apprenticeship, there is a blend of classroom and jobsite.

Career Exploration: Through partnership with Central Iowa Building & Construction Trades, the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) exposes teens and young adults to an introduction to a variety of building trades.

Field Trips: We tour Local Union Apprenticeship training centers, experiencing hands-on introductions to each skilled trade, while meeting experts and apprentices. We visit jobsites, hear from guest industry speakers, and explore the career opportunities for everyone in the building trades.

Hands-On Experience: Habitat for Humanity will host our hands-on work, as will visits to the shops at apprenticeship training centers.

Certificate: Through MC3, participants will receive OSHA 10, First Aid / CPR training and graduate with an industry-recognized credential and certificate.

The model combines Risk vs Reward, earn-while-you-learn, and S.O.S. (Services, Opportunities, and Supports) from positive youth development.  

This program is a pathway into the building trades, with outreach focus on youth in underrepresented populations. We offer additional barrier busters to create an equitable career pathway for Des Moines youth.