Trade Training: A roadmap to kickstarting, accelerating careers in construction.

AuthorKreilkamp, Danny
PositionCONSTRUCTION

For young people eager to begin their careers, or more seasoned professionals simply interested in a change of scenery, the construction industry offers jobseekers a number of different programs and training opportunities to gain required skills and education. Though the path to forging a career in this industry can be winding and, at times, somewhat convoluted. Apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, vocational colleges, labor unions, company-specific certifications--what do they all mean? And where do you begin?

When it comes to trade training, one size does not fit all; determining the option that best suits prospective construction workers should be considered on a case-by-case basis. Instead of a straight line, with point A being the beginning of an individual's journey and point B signaling the end, imagine the options available to aspiring construction professionals as a branch--with different limbs representing programs of varying structure, length, and requirement. And while the following options aren't the only routes to a long, lucrative career in construction, they're a great place to start.

Introductory and Pre-Apprenticeship Training

For those still deciding which branch of the construction trade they might be interested in pursuing, introductory and pre-apprenticeship training is a great way to explore their options without breaking the bank. The various training programs offered through Alaska Works Partnership (AWP) are particularly affordable--in fact, 100 percent of student fees are covered by the nonprofit. Befitting of the organization's name, AWP teams with local organizations such as the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Nine Star Education & Employment Services, and a host of other entities to deliver training to Alaska's construction industry.

"One of our goals is that we want to make sure all of our youth know that apprenticeship is a great alternative to college before they graduate," says Program Manager Tiffany Caudle.

"Every training we do is completely free--people don't have to provide anything. We provide the materials, the safety gear... all people have to do is apply, be selected, and show up," she continues, noting the lack of any income stipulations.

AWP boasts several different programs, some catering exclusively to women (Women in the Trades), some catering to ex-military (Helmets to Hardhats), but the largest and most popular program it offers is the Alaska Construction Academies training.

Caudle explains that due to the popularity of AWP's trainings, the organization often receives two or three times the number of applications than there are available spots, especially with the added restrictions surrounding gatherings and COVID-19.

But the application process is simple...

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