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STUDENTS
BUILD YOUR FUTURE!
Graduating from high school can be an intimidating milestone, and figuring out what to do afterwards can be a daunting task. That’s why it’s important for you to explore all of your options, including the skilled trades. Just like college, learning a trade is typically a 4 year program both in and out of the classroom. Called ‘The other four year degree’, students graduate with the knowledge they need to keep earning a good wage with great benefits until the time that they can retire with a fair pension. All of this with no college debt.
TAKE A TRAINING CENTER TOUR
Just like a college campus visit, we routinely open our doors to students like you to learn more about our apprenticeship programs. Sign up below to take a Training Center Tour at one of our state of the art facilities in Detroit, Grayling, Negaunee, Saginaw, and Wayland.
Attend a Build MI Future Skills Camp
Interested in trying your hand at basic construction and getting paid while doing it? Build MI Future Skills Camp is for you! This six-week camp held at our training centers in Detroit, Negaunee, and Wayland gives students like you the opportunity to get paid while learning valuable skills, and then put those skills to work building projects that support our community. Sign up for more information!
WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER A JOB IN THE SKILLED TRADES?
Working in the skilled trades brings a variety of benefits. It provides a sense of accomplishment as well as stability both financially and professionally.
CONSISTENT INCOME
With an average starting pay of $20/hour plus benefits, pay for apprenticeships in the skilled trades are above average for recent high school graduates. Your union contract guarantees you regular raises, healthcare benefits and a pension.
TRAINING
Skilled trades programs offer apprenticeships with extensive training in and out of the classroom with state-of-the art techniques, education, and equipment. Learn the skills to be the best-in-the-business while getting paid. Plus, as a union member you can return any time for free lifelong learning to upgrade your skills and advance your career.
FULFILLMENT
The skilled trades offer a great opportunity to pursue your passions and find professional success without accumulating more debt. Through the skilled trades you have the potential to create something tangible that you can be proud of and point to as a symbol of your hard work.
A GOOD LIFE
Skilled trades members work because it's their passion. They also work to lead fulfilling lives off the job site, supporting their families, enjoying Michigan’s great outdoors, and doing all the things that bring meaning to a life well lived.
APPRENTICESHIPS:
EARN WHILE YOU LEARN
So what's an apprenticeship?
A skilled trade apprenticeship is a program that gives individuals the opportunity to learn and practice a skilled trade in their area of choice.
Okay I'm interested...
Skilled trade apprenticeships offer so much more than just a job. The program typically includes hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities, education and mentorship from experienced professionals in the field, and fulfilling hands-on work – all while making new friends and getting paid!
More details please!
Apprenticeships can range from two to four years depending on the trade, with successful completion granting certification in that field.
Unlike some internships, apprenticeships pay a competitive hourly wage, and you may be eligible for pay increases as your apprenticeship continues.
Apprenticeships mean:
- Tuition-free & competitive hourly wage
- State-of-the-art training centers
- Credentials that are recognized nationwide
- Fulfilling work
- Growth potential
GABRIEL WREN SLEDGE
THIRD YEAR CARPENTER APPRENTICE
“If you are trying to figure out how to change your life for the better, I would say trade school is the way. The skills you learn here can take you anywhere.”
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
Interested in learning more about apprenticeships, finding a career fair near you, or touring a training center?
