Education Plan
Building Trades Pre-Apprenticeship
Preparing students for high-demand careers in construction, skilled trades, and the built environment through hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials.
Earn While You Learn
Garfield County School Of Innovation's Building Trades Pre-Apprenticeship program gives students a direct pathway into one of the fastest-growing sectors in the region. Students gain real-world skills in carpentry, woodworking, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and construction management — all while earning credits that count toward graduation and industry certifications.
Partnering with local contractors, trade unions, and workforce development organizations, Garfield County School Of Innovation connects students with mentors, job-site experiences, and registered apprenticeship programs before they ever leave high school.
What Students Learn
Construction Fundamentals
Students learn blueprint reading, site safety, tool use, and basic construction principles through project-based coursework tied to real builds in the community.
Carpentry and Framing
Hands-on labs cover rough framing, finish carpentry, cabinetry, and structural systems — skills in demand across residential and commercial construction.
Electrical and Plumbing Basics
Introduction to residential wiring, conduit installation, plumbing systems, and code compliance prepares students for entry-level trade positions and apprenticeship testing.
HVAC and Mechanical Systems
Students explore heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and mechanical systems — a high-demand trade with strong local employment opportunities in Garfield County.
OSHA Safety Certification
All students complete OSHA 10 training and earn their safety card — a baseline credential required by most employers and apprenticeship programs.
Registered Apprenticeship Pathways
Graduates are connected directly to registered apprenticeship programs through union and contractor partnerships, giving them a head start on a lifelong career.
Woodworking and Fine Craftsmanship
Students develop precision woodworking skills — joinery, cabinetry, furniture making, and finishing techniques — through hands-on projects in partnership with a local Glenwood Springs woodworking shop, bridging traditional craft with modern trade skills.
Program Progression
Introduction
Basic tool safety, construction math, and introductory project builds that spark interest in the skilled trades.
Foundations
Core trade coursework, OSHA 10 certification, and first job-site visits with local contractor partners.
Pre-Apprenticeship
Advanced trade electives, paid work-based learning experiences, and preparation for registered apprenticeship entrance exams.
Apprenticeship Bridge
Concurrent enrollment and direct placement into registered apprenticeship programs through higher education and union partnerships.
Industry and Workforce Partners
Garfield County School Of Innovation works alongside local contractors, trade unions, and workforce development agencies — and actively recruits skilled volunteers from the community to mentor our students and bring real-world trade experience into the classroom.
Explore Business and Industry Partnerships
Start Building Your Future
A career in the skilled trades offers strong wages, job security, and the satisfaction of building something that lasts. Garfield County School Of Innovation can help you get there.