The Pathway to Apprenticeships Certificate is a one year, two-semester program designed to prepare students for entry into registered apprenticeships and skilled trades careers. Built in partnership with the Monroe/Lenawee AFL CIO Skilled Trades Council, this program develops the foundational technical skills, safety knowledge and trade awareness needed to succeed in today’s construction environments.
Program Overview
Students gain hands-on experience in construction methods, materials, safety, math and blueprint reading. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with applied learning to introduce the expectations and responsibilities of skilled trades professionals. Elective options allow students to explore specific trades such as welding, electrical, mechanical drafting or building systems.
This program is ideal for:
• Individuals seeking a direct pathway into an apprenticeship
• Career changers exploring skilled trades
• High school graduates wanting job-ready skills
• Employers seeking pre-apprenticeship training for future apprentices
Program Structure
Total Credits: 22-25
Total Contact Hours: 28-34
Duration: 2 semesters (Fall + Winter)*
What Graduates Gain
• A strong technical foundation aligned with apprenticeship expectations
• Hands on experience with tools, materials and construction practices
• Technical math, safety and blueprint reading competencies
• Exposure to multiple skilled trades fields
• A competitive edge when applying to registered apprenticeship programs
Career Pathways
Graduates are positioned to pursue apprenticeships in:
• Plumbing
• Pipefitting
• Welding
• HVAC/R
• Construction laborer/trades helper roles
Apprenticeship Benefits for Program Completers
• Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 671
o Advance standing for application
o Direct interview
o Credit towards required RTI apprenticeship hours
*Course details will be released April 2026 in the 2026-2027 Catalog.