Construction & Trades Program

Build a Career with Your Hands

The Construction & Trades program is BridgeWorks' flagship training track and has produced more graduates than any other program since our founding in 2015. This intensive, hands-on program prepares participants for high-demand careers in welding, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. Graduates leave with industry-recognized certifications, real job-site experience, and the confidence to succeed in a skilled trade that offers long-term stability and growth.

---

Program Overview

• Duration: 16 weeks (Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM)
• Cost: Free to all participants
• Class Size: 24 participants per cohort
• Placement Rate: 82% within 60 days of graduation
• Average Starting Wage: $18.50/hour
• New Cohorts: Launch monthly on a rolling basis

---

What You Will Learn

Weeks 1-4: Foundation & Safety

Every participant begins with a comprehensive foundation in construction safety and core skills. This phase covers:

• OSHA 10-Hour Safety Certification -- workplace hazard recognition, fall protection, personal protective equipment, and regulatory compliance
• Tool identification and safe operation of hand and power tools
• Blueprint reading and construction math fundamentals
• Introduction to building codes and industry standards
• Workplace communication and professionalism on the job site

Weeks 5-10: Specialty Track

After completing the foundation phase, participants select one of four specialty tracks based on their interests and career goals:

• Welding -- MIG, TIG, and stick welding techniques; AWS D1.1 structural welding certification preparation; metal fabrication and cutting processes
• Carpentry -- Rough and finish carpentry; framing, roofing, and interior trim; measurement and layout; material estimation
• Plumbing -- Residential and commercial plumbing systems; pipe fitting and soldering; drain, waste, and vent systems; fixture installation
• Electrical -- Basic electrical theory; residential wiring and conduit installation; circuit testing and troubleshooting; National Electrical Code fundamentals

Each specialty track includes a minimum of 120 hours of supervised hands-on workshop practice in our 28,000 square-foot training facility.

Weeks 11-14: Job-Site Experience

Participants spend four weeks at active job sites with our employer partners, gaining real-world experience under the supervision of experienced tradespeople. This phase bridges the gap between classroom training and full-time employment, allowing participants to apply their skills in a professional setting while building relationships with potential employers.

Weeks 15-16: Certification & Career Launch

The final two weeks are dedicated to certification exam preparation, career readiness, and job placement support:

• Certification exam review sessions and practice tests
• Resume writing and interview preparation workshops
• Mock interviews with industry professionals
• Employer meet-and-greet events with hiring managers from our partner network
• Individual career planning sessions with a BridgeWorks career coach

---

Certifications Earned

Graduates of the Construction & Trades program earn the following credentials:

• OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Card -- required by most employers and job sites
• NCCER Core Curriculum Certification -- nationally recognized construction industry credential
• Specialty Certification (varies by track):
  • AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Certification (Welding track)
  • NCCER Carpentry Level 1 (Carpentry track)
  • EPA Section 608 Certification (Plumbing track, where applicable)
  • Specialty-specific assessments for Electrical and Plumbing tracks
• First Aid / CPR Certification

---

Who This Program Is For

The Construction & Trades program is designed for returning citizens who are motivated to learn a skilled trade and ready to commit to 16 weeks of full-time training. No prior construction experience is required. We welcome participants at all skill levels, whether you have never picked up a tool or have some background in the trades and want to formalize your skills with industry certifications.

Eligibility Requirements

• 18 years of age or older
• Returning citizen (involvement with the criminal justice system)
• Able to commit to the full 16-week program schedule
• Able to perform physical tasks including standing, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and working in varying conditions

---

Support During Training

BridgeWorks provides comprehensive wraparound support to help you stay focused on your training:

• Weekly stipend to help cover living expenses
• Bus passes and transportation assistance
• Access to housing referrals, childcare support, and legal aid services
• One-on-one mentorship with a professional in the construction industry
• Behavioral health support and peer counseling

---

After Graduation

Our commitment to you does not end at graduation. BridgeWorks career services provides 12 months of post-placement support, including regular check-ins with you and your employer, continued access to your mentor, and assistance navigating any challenges that arise during your first year on the job.

---

How to Apply

1. Complete the online interest form at bridgeworks.org or visit our office at 1200 Opportunity Drive, Suite 400
2. Attend a Tuesday orientation session at 10:00 AM (no appointment needed)
3. Meet with an enrollment advisor to discuss your goals and select your specialty track
4. Confirm enrollment and prepare for your cohort start date

Questions? Contact our admissions team at admissions@bridgeworks.org or call (555) 234-5678, ext. 2.