Helping build a future
 for your students

The Arizona Partnership for Construction Careers (APCC) is a network of contractors, construction trade associations and individuals dedicated to creating partnerships between the construction industry and local schools.

The construction industry provides real employment opportunities

  • Construction is one of the largest industries in the United States, and a major part of our economy. In 1999, construction represented 10% of the nation's economic activity, and provided employment activity for more than six million people.
  • Construction workers receive excellent compensation and a full range of employment benefits, including insurance, retirement, and continued education.
  • Unlike many industries, construction offers the excitement of frequent change and the chance to develop a diverse set of skills, because each construction project is unique.
  • Construction provides individuals the opportunity to create something of real value and permanence - to make a tangible contribution to their community.
  • Construction careers provide many opportunities for education and advancement. This is still an industry where one can advance from entry level to the highest level in an organization, or even to starting one's own business.

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There is a clear pathway to postsecondary education
  • One of the primary objectives of the APCC is to coordinate the curriculum in the high school construction program with community college and apprenticeship programs
  • Students completing a portion of the curriculum while in high school can move directly to the next level of the program after graduation, thus eliminating redundancy. 
  • Students can receive college credits while they are still in high school
  • Students with relevant high school training frequently enter the  construction field with a higher starting wage.
  • Students can advance to engineering and construction management programs at the university  level.
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The program provides a quality curriculum, including instructional materials

  • The APCC is affiliated with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), a nationally recognized source for curriculum in the construction industry.

  • The NCCER can accredit high school programs through partnership with local training providers. APCC can help facilitate this process.

  • The NCCER provides highly transportable training records. Students who wish to continue their education in another state  can access their records from the NCCER. 

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APCC provides active involvement by local contractors
Every construction education program has needs that the local school and budget  cannot provide for. The APCC can help link school construction programs with interested local contractors for assistance with a road range of needs, including:

  • Guest speakers and field trips to construction projects.

  • Loan or donations of tools, supplies, materials, etc.

  • Participation in community construction projects, such a Habitat for Humanity.

  • Internship, part-time and summer employment opportunities for students while in school.

  • Full-time employment opportunities for graduates.

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APCC can provide exceptional support for instructors
  • The NCCER provides a training program and certification program for instructors who wish to use the curriculum. APCC provides this training for teachers at no cost to the teacher or school.
  • APCC can provide teachers in construction programs with in-service training on new construction technologies, and internship or part-time employment for those desiring more 'hands-on' experience in the industry.
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