With the construction industry needing to attract more than 400,000 new workers this year, the demand for a highly skilled and adaptable workforce is critical. That’s why West Tennessee ABC is proud to lead the charge in workforce development through our apprenticeship program. 

Since 1987, we’ve been committed to advancing craft training and equipping professionals with the knowledge and hands-on experience required to succeed in the trades – and the results are paying off.

Through partnerships with contractors, employers, and industry leaders, we’re shaping the next generation of industry leaders. With a curriculum backed by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), our program ensures that each apprentice meets rigorous industry standards while gaining real-world, on-the-job instruction.

A proven model for skill development

ABC apprenticeships are registered with the U.S. Department of Labor and offer training in 12 essential trades that keep our region’s construction projects running strong.

Each trade receives a combination of classroom instruction with on-the-job learning, allowing apprentices to immediately apply what they learn in real project environments. This integrated approach builds proficiency, confidence, and long-term career potential.

The NCCER curriculum offers nationally recognized credentials that follow apprentices throughout their careers, giving them a competitive edge wherever they go. For employers, this means reliable, consistent performance from workers who meet standardized expectations from day one.

Offering custom solutions that work – for workers and employers alike

What sets our apprenticeship program apart is the tangible return on investment it offers for both individuals and companies. Apprentices earn while they learn, reducing the financial burden often associated with education and giving them real-world experience from day one.

Employers, in turn, gain team members who meet specific job requirements and are more likely to stay long-term thanks to the investment made in their development. But the benefits go beyond a more skilled workforce. Because West Tennessee ABC serves as both a certified skills assessment center and a trusted program administrator, we help companies build apprenticeship programs that reflect their own values, workflows, and standards.

We partner with you to customize the curriculum and schedule to align with your operations and project needs. That flexibility increases program completion rates and ensures your employees are learning in ways that directly benefit your business.

Our assessments and performance evaluations assist in identifying knowledge gaps, developing targeted training, and fast-tracking top performers for certification. Overall, West Tennessee ABC can help you build a smarter, stronger team with tools tailored to your goals.

Building better managers

While technical skills are essential, leadership and project management are just as critical on today’s job sites. That’s why ABC also invests in the development of management personnel. Through annual seminars and specialized courses, such as Introduction to Blueprint Reading, Commercial Construction Estimating, and Project Management, we help equip your leaders, foremen, and office personnel with the tools they need to run smarter, safer, and more efficient jobs.

These offerings are designed with both general contractors and subcontractors in mind, helping companies of all sizes level up their internal leadership capacity.

Powered by NCCER’s national expertise

Behind our successful program is the support of NCCER, a nationally recognized authority in construction education. NCCER offers turnkey solutions and guidance for registered apprenticeships, streamlining compliance with Department of Labor standards and certifying that training meets the highest quality benchmarks.

With access to NCCER’s curriculum, flexible resources, and implementation support, West Tennessee ABC is able to deliver a best-in-class program without the administrative burden falling solely on employers. This collaboration ensures our apprenticeships remain rigorous, relevant, and impactful for all participants.

The future of construction starts here

Whether you’re an aspiring tradesperson or a contractor looking to build a more capable team, West Tennessee ABC apprenticeships offer a clear path to success. By combining national accreditation, customized education options, and leadership development opportunities, we are shaping a workforce that’s prepared to meet the demands of the industry – and raising the bar for construction excellence across our region.

If you’re ready to invest in your team or your career, apply today for a West Tennessee ABC apprenticeship. Let’s build what’s next – together.