Building Trades
What To Expect
Learn from skilled professionals
At NOCC you’ll get a full understanding of the construction trades from pros who have lived it. Learn job site safety, basic tool use, and how the trades interact and collaborate.
Get hands-on training
At the end of the year, you’ll have built something with your own hands and gained the knowledge to enter a career in the building trades. Trainees learn from industry pros both at NOCC and from job site visits across the city.
Earn industry-based credentials
At the end of a year, trainees will be equipped for well-paid entry-level jobs in construction and be ready to begin the trades apprenticeship journey. Those who return for a second, pre-apprenticeship year can specialize in carpentry, electrical, HVAC and welding to pursue a professional certification.
From Our Trainees
“When I was approached with the opportunity to intern at Kern Studios, my mind was blown. I knew that I was doing well, but the teachers, the success coaches, they know the opportunities we can reach. There were a lot of things I did expect when I came to NOCC - they’re very communicative - but I really never expected to have this kind of internship.”
NCCER Electrical Level 2 Certified
Hired by Kern Studios
“At NOCC, I found welding and I love the idea of creating, of using your hands. They make it easy to learn. Even though it’s a male-dominated field, women can be in there and NOCC makes space. And in your personal life, they make sure if something is wrong you can go to them. If there is any ounce of struggle, they make sure that they are there for you. ”
NCCER Welding Level 2 Certified
Hired by Tulane University
Industry Partners
“Twice a month we go to NOCC to coach students through what an employer wants and show them real-world scenarios so they become better candidates. We make suggestions and take part in teaching; because of this NOCC has changed their curriculum and become better teachers. NOCC students can speak intelligently during interviews and show real knowledge. Our partnership means both the community and industry benefit.”
In the Building Trades pathway, trainees start the journey into one of the region’s fastest-growing industries. They gain hands-on job site and trade-specific skills, effective communication, teamwork, leadership, and critical thinking in the trades labs and classrooms.
What We Offer
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We offer training for building trades careers that the starting wage rage is $16.25 - $17/hr:
Carpentry
Electrical
HVAC
Welding
Networking Opportunities
Field Experiences
Panel Discussions
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OSHA 10
OSHA 30
NCCER Core Level 1
NCCER Core Level 2
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Industry Facts
88% of contractors report difficulty finding skilled construction workers.
5.9% demand is expected to grow in the coming years by 2032.
For High School Students
Year-long programs are available for high school students, aligned with NOLA-PS school calendars and schedules. Trainees earn high school credits and attend half-day training sessions that fit into their specific school timetable.
For High School Graduates
In response to industry and community needs, NOCC offers adult training programs ranging from 8-week courses to 10-month programs, including on-the-job training. These programs lead to employment upon completion.
