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 focuses on building a pathway into the building trades for underserved and disadvantaged youth to bring diversity to the Building Trades, and support applicants along that path. We are proud to create gender and racial equality in the workforce, while opening opportunities for Des Moines youth.