S.T.A.R.T.
SKILLED TRADES APPRENTICESHIP READINESS TRAINING
A partnership between the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters and Big Picture Learning to develop the next generation of skilled union tradespeople in New Jersey.
The Need
Unions and contractors are facing a RETIREMENT CLIFF
44+ years
average carpenter age
25%+
retiring in 5 years
5%
annual growth
29
years
average apprentice age
Only 2%
of first-year apprentices are ages 18–19
About the Program
From first exposure to union apprenticeship — statewide
Working with schools and organizations across New Jersey, this program exposes younger youth to the trades and prepares hundreds of older youth to enter union apprenticeships — during the school year and summer.
Grades 8 to 10
Exploration & hands-on experience
Younger youth explore a variety of trades through hands-on activities, building awareness and interest before committing to a path.
older youth
Formal training & on-the-job learning
Older youth receive structured instruction and real workplace experience with a direct pipeline into union apprenticeships.
Supported by
Carpenters Union and Big Picture Learning
Financial, instructional, and technical support is provided by the Carpenters Union and Big Picture Learning, a national leader in workplace learning for 30 years.
A career in the trades offers a path to a fulfilling life for our youth. Tradespeople report a high degree of personal satisfaction with their work, financial stability, and a high rate of home ownership, thus building intergenerational wealth for their families. And ZERO college debt!
How Enrollment Works
Getting a young person enrolled in the program is a straightforward process. Here's what to expect from start to finish.
Step 1
Attend Orientation
Staff and youth attend an orientation session facilitated by the union and Big Picture Learning.
Orientations may be held in person or virtually, and cover program expectations, requirements, and next steps.
Step 2
Screen for Eligibility
School or organization staff review interested youth against union apprenticeship eligibility requirements, which include:
-
Valid driver's license
-
Reliable transportation
Only youth who meet all eligibility criteria move forward to nomination.
Step 3
Nominate a Youth
Staff nominates eligible youth using the B-Unbound* Nomination Form (link below).
Once submitted, an application is automatically sent to both the nominating staff member and the youth.
Step 4
Submit the Application
Staff help the youth complete and submit their application. No youth should have to navigate this step alone.
Step 5
Confirm Acceptance and Enroll
Accepted applicants are enrolled in Big Picture Learning's B-Unbound App platform, which tracks hours of attendance and work completed throughout the program.
Enrollment must be fully completed before participation can begin.
Participation in the B-Unbound App is mandatory
Step 6
Upload Required Documents
Before starting, the following documents must be uploaded to B-Unbound App:
-
W-9
-
Media Release
Step 7
Begin
Once enrolled and documents are submitted, the youth is ready to start.
Application Open!
Enrollment for the Summer 2-26 CARP 3-1-1 program for older youth (recent high school graduates and out-of-school older youth) is now open.
For more information, contact:
Home
About
Contact
Proudly designed by Your Name
© 2035 by Name of Site. Created on Wix Studio.