What is TIP?

Eligibility Requirements:

To participate, individuals must:

• Be at least 18 years of age by the completion of their session.
   
• Possess a valid driver’s license.
   
• Provide valid documentation authorizing employment in the United States.
   
• Have earned a high school diploma, GED, CHSPE, or an equivalent qualification.
   
• Be physically capable of performing the required manual labor.
   
• Be able to pass an employer drug test.

• Attend Mandatory Orientation: Participation in a 2-hour orientation is required to begin the process.
   
• Complete the Application: After orientation, you will receive a QR code or application link to fill out the necessary information.
   
• Upload Required Documentation: Once your application is complete, you will have two weeks to upload the required documentation to a secure site via the provided QR code or link.
   
• Interview: Your interview will typically be scheduled 2 weeks before the cohort begins.
   
• Notification of Acceptance: If accepted into the program, you will receive an email with further instructions. If not accepted, you will receive a brief notification email.

No experience needed

Please check back for future class dates. 

The Trades Introduction Program (TIP) is a certificated apprenticeship readiness course designed to provide participants with the essential skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in union building trades. The program consists of 120-140 hours of instruction over the course of approximately 20 weeks (5 months). Classes are held twice a week from       5:45 PM to 9:00 PM. 

• Gas Reimbursement: Participants in the TIP program are eligible for reimbursement of up to $100 per month to assist with transportation costs.
   
• Childcare Assistance: TIP provides financial assistance for childcare expenses while participants attend classes, ensuring that family responsibilities do not hinder program involvement.
   
• Work-Related Expense Reimbursement: Upon acceptance into an apprenticeship, participants may be reimbursed up to $500 for approved work-related expenses.
   

The Trades Introduction Program (TIP) provides you with tools, certifications, essential information, and one-on-one coaching to help you prepare for a career in union building trades. However, participation in TIP does not guarantee acceptance into a registered apprenticeship program.

If you already know which trade you’d like to pursue, we encourage you to apply directly to that trade’s apprenticeship program. Those programs will provide the specialized training and knowledge you need to succeed in that specific trade.

If you’re still exploring your options, we welcome you to attend one of our upcoming orientations to learn more about the various trades and how TIP can support your journey.

The timeline for placement in an apprenticeship program varies depending on individual circumstances. Some participants have been placed within weeks of starting the program after seizing an opportunity, while others may wait 3-4 years for the right trade to become available. Ultimately, the speed of placement is influenced by your actions.

By following the instructions, actively engaging with your coach, and consistently putting in the effort, you can increase your chances of faster placement. The timing is in your hands.

As mentioned previously, TIP will provide you with the necessary tools, certifications, information, and one-on-one coaching to help you begin a career in union building trades. However, please note that participation in TIP does not guarantee placement in an apprenticeship.