Work-Ready in 12 Weeks: Your Path to a Trades Career Starts Here
Step Up Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Locations: 201 New Jersey Street, Morgantown, WV 26501 & 501 19th Street, Dunbar, WV 25064
Step Up Construction is West Virginia’s only Department of Labor-recognized pre-apprenticeship program. In just 12 weeks, you’ll get real, hands-on experience in carpentry, electrical, plumbing, welding, and more—training that prepares you for the job site, not just the classroom.
Straightforward Training That Gets You to Work
Our program is built for people who want to work. You’ll learn the skills employers are looking for through real projects, taught by industry professionals. We’ll also help you sharpen your resume, learn how to communicate on the job, and manage your paycheck—so you’re ready to hit the ground running.
Connections That Lead to Jobs
We introduce you to the people who can help you get hired—contractors, unions, and apprenticeship programs. You’ll visit construction sites and training centers so you can see the opportunities for yourself and start building your network.
Certifications That Matter to Employers
Every graduate earns key industry-recognized certifications, including:
OSHA 10 Construction Safety Card
Plumber in Training License
HVAC Trainee License
First Aid/CPR/AED Certification
Forklift Certification
These certifications show you’re ready to work—and give you an edge when applying for jobs.
Apply Now to Start Your Career in Construction
Step Up Construction Pre-Apprenticeship gives you the training, support, and industry connections to move into a real career. If you’re ready to get to work, we’re here to help you take that first step.
No experience needed—just a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.
What to Expect
Step Up Construction combines classroom learning with hands-on experience to prepare you for a real job in the trades.
Here’s what you can expect during the 12-week program:
Job-Readiness Training: Build essential skills that help you succeed on the job, including professional communication, networking, interviewing, career exploration, budgeting and credit, and understanding your paycheck and benefits.
Hands-On Skills Practice: Get real experience in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, welding, and more—learning by doing, just like on the job site.
Real-World Projects: Apply your skills on actual build projects that reflect the demands of the workplace.
Guest Speakers & Site Tours: Connect with contractors, union leaders, and apprenticeship coordinators. Tour job sites and training facilities to explore your options.
Volunteer Projects: Strengthen your skills and your resume while giving back to the community.
You’ll graduate with the skills, experience, and industry connections needed to take the next step toward a good-paying job or apprenticeship in the trades.
- We have 20 years of experience in training folks for nontraditional trades.
- We work with graduates until they are employed, no matter how long it takes. We want you to enter a new career, not just get another job.
- Our program is tuition-free through funding and scholarships.
- Potential to earn between $13 – $20 an hour as an entry-level employee after graduating from our program. Many of these jobs also offer benefits and additional on-the-job & classroom training.
- Hands-On-Training:
Students cycle through training in Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, & Welding. We believe in teaching students by having them do the work and not just watching. - Career Readiness:
Our students learn the essential skills to prepare, find, and keep a job. These skills include: resume writing, interviewing, job hunting techniques, effective communication, budgeting & credit, and a basic math skills refresher. - Trades Exploration/Industry Overviews:
While attending the Step Up program you will be able to explore different trades and career paths. Students will have the opportunity to meet with former graduates that are working in nontraditional jobs, meet representatives from unions, commercial & residential companies, and take field trips to different construction sites and apprenticeship training centers. - Certifications/License:
During the Step Up Program students can attain the following: OSHA 10 construction safety card, Plumbers Apprentice license, HVAC Trainee license, First Aid/CPR, & Forklift certification.
The Step Up Construction program is 12 weeks long. This allows you to begin your new nontraditional career as soon as possible. Class times are Monday – Thursday from 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM with instructor and Fridays are independent study days where students are expected to work on resumes, math, requirements to graduate assignments, and job shadows. Classes will begin in the Spring and Fall. Courses can fill up fast, it is recommended applicants apply well in advance of a class start date.
For more information about our programs, visit our FAQ page, or email: info@wvwomenwork.org.
