FAQs

What type of training is the Highway Construction Careers Training Program?

The Highway Construction Careers Training Program is a pre-apprenticeship program. The program does not train you in a specific trade but will:

  • Improve your math skills.
  • Teach you how to read a tape measure.
  • Give you experience operating power tools.
  • Teach you how to work and thrive on a construction job.
  • Educate you about the different trade union apprenticeship opportunities and the entrance requirements and procedures of each specific trade.
  • Introduce you to a wide variety of career options in the construction industry. 
What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a portable, nationally-recognized credential.

The Highway Construction Careers Training Program is a pre-apprenticeship to help you gain access to formal U.S. Department of Labor registered construction trade apprenticeships.

How much will an apprenticeship cost me?
Nothing! Apprenticeships are funded by the members who work for that specific local trade. Education received will be provided at no cost to the apprentice. Only initiation fees, books, and hand tool costs may apply.

What type of training would I receive in the Highway Construction Careers Training Program?
  • Training ranges from 14-week to 22-week programs. Typically 4 days per week, 6 to 8 hours per day.
  • Only two training groups are held throughout the year with varied training schedules. Attend an orientation to learn more about times and dates of the next class.  

Classroom Training:

  • Math for the Trades
  • Life Skills
  • Construction Site Safety (OSHA 30, First Aid/CPR/AED, and more)
  • Equipment Training (Aerial Lift, Scissor Lift, Skid Steer, Backhoe/End Loader, Crane Safety & Crane Signaling, Extended Reach Fork Lift, and Fork Lift)

Hands-on Training:

  • General Construction:
    Students will work on group construction projects (mainly concrete and carpentry) that teach how to use hand and power tools, and how to work and succeed in a construction-type environment.
  • Skilled Trades Training:
    Students will complete an introduction to SMAW (stick) welding course and a course that instructs the student on the basic skills of plumbing, electrical, and sheet metal.

How much does the Highway Construction Careers Training Program cost?
Nothing! The Highway Construction Careers Training Program is fully funded by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
Is Highway Construction Careers Training Program a paid training program?
Yes! Students enrolled in the Highway Construction Careers Training Program will receive a stipend of $10/hour (paid weekly).

How often is the Highway Construction Careers Training Program offered?

The Highway Construction Careers Training Program has two classes each year.

  1. The first class starts in March and ends in June
  2. The second class starts in October and ends in March 
Who should not consider the Highway Construction Careers Training Program?
  • Unable to show up on time and ready to work
  • Those who are afraid of working at heights
  • Lack curiosity
  • Not able to pass a drug test
  • Unwilling to work hard
  • Don’t like working outdoors in all weather conditions
What documents do I need to provide before I can enroll into the Highway Construction Careers Training Program?

When you come to your interview you need to bring:

  • Valid driver’s license
  • Official high school/G.E.D. transcripts
  • Birth certificate
What do I need to buy if I am accepted into the Highway Construction Careers Training Program?
Other than jeans that are free from rips or tears, everything you will need is provided by the grant. This includes pens, pencils, paper, books, work boots, tools, etc.

Do I have to pass a test to be accepted into the Highway Construction Careers Training Program?
  1. You must pass a Math and Reading test at the required level. If you do not pass you can retake the test after completion of the free tutoring plan recommended by the Parkland College Adult Education Department.
  2. You are welcome to take a bridge class through the Adult Education department at any point before or after the HCCTP Orientation to help prepare yourself for the assessment testing. 
  3. For information about Adult Education at Parkland College  Phone: 217/351-2580 Fax: 217/373-3836 Email: adulteducation@parkland.edu
Does the Highway Construction Careers Training Program have an attendance policy?
Yes. The Highway Construction Careers Training Program has a very strict No Fault attendance policy, which means that students are penalized for being absent or late, regardless of the reason or who is at fault. Attendance points are given for each occurrence (2 for a late arrival, 3 for an absence, and 6 for a “no call, no show”). When a student receives 12 attendance points they are expelled from the program.

Do I earn any type of certifications in the Highway Construction Careers Training Program?
  • The HCCTP Graduation Certificate is recognized by IDOT contractors.
  • Welding 110
  • CPR/First Aid Certificate
  • OSHA 30 Safety Certification
Is there job placement?
HCCTP does not provide job placement, but the program guides students through the process of applying to apprenticeships. Students are expected to apply to apprenticeships while in the HCCTP and after until accepted.