Second-year MCPS Construction Trades Foundation students visited the Associated Builders and Contractors Metro-Washington training center for an immersive look at construction apprenticeship opportunities. According to the release, the partnership allows students to earn industry-recognized credentials, meet hiring employers, and explore pathways that continue into post-secondary apprenticeships.
Per the MCPS Foundations Office: “The Associated Builders and Contractors of Metro-Washington (ABC) welcomed second-year MCPS Construction Trades Foundation (CTF) students from Edison High School for an immersive visit to its regional training center, offering an up-close look at high-demand construction apprenticeship pathways. Through this ongoing partnership, ABC and CTF work together to encourage students to begin their four-year apprenticeship journey while earning their high-school diploma.
This accredited partnership enables MCPS to deliver the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) curriculum directly to students and award nationally recognized industry credentials to those who meet program standards. Upon graduating from the CTF program, students are encouraged to continue their apprenticeships for an additional two to three years as they advance toward completing their post-secondary career pathways.
During the visit, CTF students interacted with current apprentices who are actively working toward their journeyman licenses and learned firsthand what the apprenticeship experience entails. Students also connected with industry partners currently hiring apprentices across a range of trades. Representatives from organizations including Shapiro & Duncan, Signature Renovations, Altimate Electric, and Bayside Fire Protection shared insights about their fields and the skills they seek in future talent.
The event concluded with dedicated networking time, giving students the chance to ask questions, explore career options, and better understand how their education and training can shape a meaningful future in the construction industry.
Steve Boden, CTF Vice President, emphasized, “Our partnership with ABC Metro-Washington is more than a program—it’s an investment in the future workforce that will shape and sustain our region for decades to come. As Blueprint propels new pathways for students, we are proud to help them envision what is possible and provide the foundation for innovative, resilient, and prosperous careers. Together, we are building the next generation of leaders who will transform the construction industry.”
