Construction Pathways Madison Region, Wisconsin

About Construction Pathways

Construction Pathways (CP) is a statewide workforcedevelopment initiative funded by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. In the Madison region, CP connects employers, schools, community colleges, unions, and social service agencies to create clear career pathways into the construction trades. Its goal is to increase the number of skilled workers, improve wages, and diversify the industry while providing participants with the training, credentials, and support they need to succeed.

Why It Matters in Madison

• Growing demand: Madisons population is expanding, driving a surge in residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.
• Talent shortage: Local contractors report difficulty filling entrylevel positions with qualified candidates.
• Economic equity: The program targets underrepresented groupsincluding women, people of color, veterans, and individuals reentering the workforce.

Partner Organizations

Success is built on collaboration. The Madison region brings together a diverse network of partners:

• Universities & Colleges: University of WisconsinMadison, Madison Area Technical College (MATC), and Edgewater College.
• Trade Unions: United Brotherhood of Carpenters, Local 1644; International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 142; Laborers Local 113.
• Employers: W.E. ONeil Construction, Kiewit, MDR Construction, and numerous subcontractors.
• Workforce Agencies: Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS), Workforce Development Division, and local GoodWorks Milwaukee branches.
• Community Groups: Madison College of Business, Emerging Leaders Alliance, and local Veterans Service Offices.

Services & Training Opportunities

Construction Pathways offers a suite of services designed to move participants from interest to employment:

1. Career Exploration

Free workshops, jobshadow days, and BuildIt open houses let prospective workers see realworld construction environments.

2. Skills Training

• Certified apprenticeship programs (carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, concrete, welding).
• Shortterm nonapprentice courses: OSHA 10hour, blueprint reading, handtool safety, and greenbuilding basics.
• Industryrecognized credentials: OSHA 30hour, NCCER, ICC, and Journeyman cards.

3. Support Services

Participants receive:

• Transportation vouchers or rideshare credits.
• Childcare subsidies for qualifying families.
• Financial assistance for tools, safety gear, and exam fees.
• Casemanagement and mentorship from experienced journeypersons.

4. Job Placement

Employers in the Madison region post openings in the CP job board. Recruiters host quarterly HireDays where vetted candidates interview onsite.

5. Advancement Pathways

After gaining journeyperson status, workers can access:

• Supervisor and foreman training.
• Construction management certificates at UWMadison or MATC.
• Entrepreneurial workshops for starting a contracting business.

How to Join Construction Pathways

Whether you are a newcomer to the trades or an experienced worker seeking upskilling, the enrollment process is straightforward:

1. Complete a Registration Form: Visit constructionpathways.wi.gov and fill out the online intake.
2. Meet with a Career Advisor: A certified advisor will discuss your interests, background, and any barriers you face.
3. Choose a Training Track: Advisors match you with an apprenticeship, shortcourse, or credential pathway.
4. Enroll in Support Services: If you need transportation, childcare, or financial aid, submit the relevant applications.
5. Begin Training: Attend orientation, receive your tools kit, and start classes or onthejob training.

Contact & Additional Resources

Phone: (608) 5550123
Email: madisoncp@wisconsin.gov
Office: 1234 West Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53703

Explore more:

• Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
• Madison Area Technical College
• University of WisconsinMadison Construction Management