Build Your Career
As a resource, GBCA has created Build Your Career, intended to help educate those interested in working with their hands on the opportunities available in skilled labor in our region.
Apprenticeship Opportunities
Close to 20 separate apprentice training programs are available in the Greater Philadelphia area. These typically combine on the job training with classroom instruction. To learn more about apprenticeship opportunities contact the Philadelphia Apprenticeship Coordinators Association (PACA).
Apprenticeships are available through one of the Philadelphia area building trades’ apprenticeship programs.v
Visit the following sites for more information:
Carpenters frame with wood, metal studs, install gypsum wallboard, install tile and carpet, insulate, install ceilings, and weld all types of materials. They read drawings, use hand and power tools, and are crucial to foundation work, infrastructure, scaffolding, layout, and more.
Laborers are able to perform a number of skills and take part in every type of project. All other trade professionals depend on laborers for their multifaceted array of skills.
Ironworkers erect the reinforcing framework of buildings, weld, and place reinforcing steel and rigging.
Cement masons use concrete to finish concrete walls and floors for high-rise buildings, stadiums, and a host of other commercial and multi-dwelling structures.
Operating Engineers run heavy equipment including cranes, excavators, bull dozers, front-end loaders, pile drivers and other large machines and tools.
Drywall finishers finishes gypsum wallboard surfaces by taping, spotting, pointing, filling, finishing, and sanding joints, angles, internal and external corners, and all field surfaces.
Plasterers make walls and ceilings flat and strong to achieve a finished product much more durable than basic sheetrock.
Pathways to Careers In Construction (click image to enlarge)
