How would it feel to drive around St. Louis and know that you helped build some of the newest schools and hospitals? Would you like to be able to point to a new skyscraper downtown and say “I helped build that”? If the idea of a career in construction appeals to you, the following information will help guide you in your search. Construction workers construct new buildings and remodel existing ones using hand and power tools. Residential construction focuses on home building and remodeling, a very competitive and fast-paced market. The commercial construction industry includes building sports stadiums, office buildings, bridges, highways and much more.
Malik Johnson: Laborer, Clayco
This video is provided in partnership with Nine Network’s American Graduate Initiative
If you are interested in the construction trades, you can enter the industry by enrolling in an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeships are FREE training programs that offer industry training while also providing a paycheck from the first day. Union construction apprenticeships usually last between three and five years. Apprentices are paid on an increasing wage scale during the apprenticeship and do not have to pay for the cost of their education. At the conclusion of the apprenticeship period, the worker receives an Apprenticeship Completion Certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor and is recognized nationwide as a credentialed journey-level tradesperson.
Wages
Carpenter: (SOC: 47-2031)
Construction Craft Laborer: (SOC: 47-2061)
Electrician: (SOC: 47-2111)
Spend some time learning about what a career in the trades might look like and what you need to do to start working. Consider participating in the Building Union Diversity (BUD) program, which provides an overview of construction trades careers and an introduction to some of the programs. the BUD program also helps applicants get connected with employers and apprenticeship programs. To apply to the BUD Program, click here
All apprenticeship programs have an application process and requirements. The following information is a summary of most apprenticeship programs.
General Apprenticeship Requirements: (Please note that specific requirements may vary by trade)
To apply, you will need to fill out some forms. These forms are usually at the trade’s training program office, so you have to go to the office to get them. Some programs require you to take entry tests, participate in a pre-apprenticeship program and take part in an interview process. You will also need to pass a drug screening to enter an apprenticeship program. There are two main ways to get into an apprenticeship program:
Application/Interview Selection Process:
Letter of Intent:
Here is a sample career ladder you can use to help plan your future.
Source: constructioncareers.org
Are you looking for opportunities to learn about these jobs while in high school? Reach out to a counselor in your school. Also, check out these resources available:
If you live or attend school in North St. Louis County- click here
If you live or attend school in South St. Louis County- click here
If you live in St. Louis City- click here
If you live in St. Charles County- click here
If you live in Jefferson County- click here
If you live in Collinsville, Illinois- click here
If you live in East St. Louis- click here
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Content at this site is subject to change at any time and Blueprint4 cannot be held responsible for discrepancies between listings posted at Blueprint4.com and the listings at the program websites. We strongly encourage you to view the program’s websites to ensure you have the most up-to-date information about available sessions.