Architecture and Construction

The Architecture and Construction career cluster comprises one of the largest industries in the United States. Careers ranging from architecture to welding are found within this particular cluster. According to the Department of Labor, the construction industry is the second largest employer in the U.S.

 

Check out this Student Career Info video on DCSC Construction Students 

The Wisconsin Architecture and Construction Youth Apprenticeship Program is designed to provide students with a working understanding of occupational and technical skills in one of the seven pathways within the Architecture and Construction industry.

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This Youth Apprenticeship occupational area focuses on the Construction Pathway. Students participating in this pathway will choose between the skilled trades of Carpentry, Electrical, Masonry/Concrete, Mechanical/HVAC, and Plumbing/Sprinkler Fitting.

Frequently asked questions

Pathway

Construction pathway: students will choose one pathway within the skilled trade areas for a one year level one program and two units for a level two or two-year program. Students will complete the core employability, safety, and certifications in OSHA and First Aid. The pathways they will choose from within the skilled trades include:

  • Carpentry
  • Electrical
  • Masonry/Concrete
  • Mechanical/HVAC
  • Plumbing/Sprinkler Fitting
  • Heavy Equipment/Operating Engineer
Design/Pre-Construction pathway: students will work with drafting and architectural technical documents in the first year along with the core employability. Students will acquire basic concepts needed to read, edit, and create architectural drawings. The second-year allows Architecture and Construction students to develop further skills in architectural planning and in specific residential and/or commercial design pieces. For Parents: The number of architecture firms and businesses in Dane County is limited. Please help us connect with businesses if you know of a great placement for your student.



Career Opportunities

The architecture and construction career cluster comprise one of the largest industries in the United States. Earnings in this career cluster are higher than average and it offers more opportunities than most other industries for individuals who want to own or run their own businesses. This career cluster prepares students for careers in designing, planning, managing, building and maintaining the building environment. People employed in this cluster work on new structures, restorations, additions, alterations, and repairs. Students in architecture and construction learn and practice skills that prepare them for diverse post-secondary opportunities. These opportunities could include two or four-year college programs, apprenticeships or employment. The Youth Apprenticeship Program in collaboration with Career and Technical Education courses will introduce you to a variety of interesting careers. Architecture Brochure Career Opportunities:

  • Architectural and Civil Drafter
  • Environmental Designer
  • Electrician
  • Residential or Commercial Carpenter
  • Engineer
  • Construction Worker
  • Electrical Design Engineer
  • HVAC/HVACR Technician
  • Sheet Metal Technician
  • Mason
  • Plumber
  • Heavy Equipment Operator/Operating Engineer



Enterance Criteria

  • Apply for the program during the second semester of junior year in high school
  • Be on track for graduation
  • Display a genuine interest in the Construction Pathway
  • Have previously enrolled in introductory pathway-specific courses
  • Register for concurrent related courses
  • Submit a completed application along with references
  • Interview effectively and get hired
  • Maintain a high level of attendance
  • Secure transportation to the job
  • On-track for high school graduation
  • Successfully complete computer-assisted design (CAD) training
  • Compile a professional portfolio of designs to show businesses during interviews
  • Not a prerequisite, but students are encouraged to successfully complete at least one job-shadow experience prior to applying for this program



Courses

Youth Apprenticeship students in the Construction program will often take classes at their home high schools during their Junior Year. Many schools will offer the National Center for Construction Education Curriculum (NCCER) at their high school however this is not required for students graduating from the Youth Apprenticeship Program.

  • Construction YA Flyer
  • OSHA 10 and First Aid training are required.
  • DCSC will offer a Commercial Construction course located at McFarland High School.



Business Partners that support Youth Apprenticeship:

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Student Testimonial

“Ever since I have started working at Stevens Construction, every day is a new day and I am never doing the same thing as the day before. The guys at work have really been a huge help on the job; they always teach me the best way to complete a task. They encourage me to always think outside the box and there is always a way to solve a problem and that nothing is impossible. Being a part of the Youth Apprenticeship Program has really opened my eyes to the possibilities in construction; and because of that, construction is definitely what I want to do for the rest of my life.”

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- Tyler Kubly, Class of 2019, Sun Prairie