What Is It Known For?
Four trade industry partners founded Northwest College of Construction in 2005 after recognizing the workforce shortage was too large for any single organization to solve. Associated Builders and Contractors Pacific Northwest Chapter, Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Portland, Associated General Contractors, and Northwest Utility Contractors Association pooled resources to train the next generation of contractors.
The college supports students through its quality programs, from apprenticeships to business leadership. Contact the school about enrollment figures.
Degrees & Certifications
The Northwest College of Construction offers the following programs:
Apprenticeships last one to six years, depending on your trade. When you finish, you get a nationally recognized industry certification as a Journey Worker, which serves as the construction industry’s equivalent to a degree/diploma.
Class Schedules
Apprentices work paid jobs during the day and attend class once weekly in the evening or once monthly for a full day, depending on their trade. Construction work runs on a project basis rather than set hours, so your schedule will shift based on what needs to be completed.
Some courses, like Cultural Competency in the Trades, run entirely online. Externships of clinical experience are not applicable.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. Northwest College of Construction administers apprenticeship training programs approved by the Oregon State Apprenticeship and Training Council and the Washington State Apprenticeship & Training Council.
Acceptance Rate
The Northwest College of Construction hasn’t published acceptance rates. Each trade has its own application requirements and process. Apply through the apprenticeship page.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Apprenticeship tuition at the Northwest College of Construction is free. The construction industry covers your tuition and books through established training trusts. However, exceptions exist for HVAC, Sheet Metal, and Protective Signaling trades. You may also need to buy protective gear and tools.
If you’re interested in the leadership and training programs, they have varying costs, so check out the respective webpages.
Northwest College of Construction does not currently have a net price calculator. Contact the school for any further queries.