Apprenticeship is the original 4-year degree!

The apprenticeship programs at Northwest College of Construction combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Unlike traditional colleges and universities where one gets a degree and then gets hired to a job, at NWCOC the job comes first. Apprentices go to school while they work, get paid and build their careers.

Apprentices work a paying job during the day and come to school for class once a week during the night or once a month for a full day (depending on trade and schedule).

The FIRST THING we do for applicants to the apprenticeship program is place them in a job with a construction contractor (Training Agent).

Once hired by a Training Agent, the applicant’s status changes from Applicant to Registered Apprentice, making them eligible to enroll as a student at the college and start going to class.

*Overall application process/dispatch time varies between specific trade and the time of the year.

Training is FREE! 

Zero tuition, zero application fees and no cancellation fees. Most importantly, NO STUDENT LOAN DEBT!

HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?!?

The construction industry pays for student’s tuition and books through an established training trust (exceptions apply in the HVAC, Sheet Metal and Protective Signaling programs).

The goal of the trust is to provide the industry with a well-trained and strong workforce. Providing a completely free education allows students to focus on their training as opposed to having to go into debt with student loans.

We aren’t kidding. Training and education at Northwest College of Construction is COMPLETELY FREE. The only thing students may need to pay for is protective gear and tools.

Applicants can apply to Northwest College of Construction on our apprenticeship page.

Each trade has their own specific application requirements and processes. They can be viewed on each individual trade webpage.

APPLICATION IS FREE! It does not cost anything to apply to NWCOC. 

Unlike traditional colleges and universities, NWCOC accepts applications for apprenticeship year-round (specific trades may have their own application window). 

We accept students all times of the year. When you are accepted into the program, you start taking classes immediately (with the exception of summer break).

Those looking to find success at NWCOC should understand the following responsibilities…

• Maintain a good attitude.
• Get to work and class ON TIME.
• Have good communication and follow through.
• Attend ALL your classes.

Those looking to potentially become an apprentice at NWCOC should understand the following realities of apprenticeship…

• Employment in construction is project-based, not hours-based. You will work varying hours, varying schedules and varying jobs based on the projects needing to be completed.
• Be prepared for periods of unemployment (most likely during winter when project count is lower).
• Be prepared for variations in pay. One project could pay a different wage than another project.
• Apprenticeship is a pathway to a lucrative and lifelong career to those willing to put forth the time and effort. This opportunity is yours to take. Are you ready to grasp it?

If an applicant is brand new to the construction industry, we highly recommend starting out with the CONSTRUCTION CRAFT LABORERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.

This program is a fantastic starting point for those who aren’t entirely sure which craft they want to commit to.

Students will learn about what it takes to work in construction and immediately start building a resume for their future. Many of our Heavy Equipment apprentices START OUT in the Construction Craft Laborers apprenticeship program.