The Program
The Program
The BUILT NoCO program brings construction-based vocational education to students in participating schools across Northern Colorado. Through this program, students have the opportunity to enroll in construction courses offered as electives, where they can explore career pathways within the construction industry.
Students gain hands-on experience and are guided through industry-recognized training developed by the Home Builders Institute (HBI). The program also provides opportunities for students to earn certificates recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor, while gaining access to internships, job shadowing, and entry-level positions in the construction field.
The Curriculum
The nationally recognized Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT) from the Home Builders Institute (HBI) forms the foundation of the curriculum facilitated by Careers in Construction Colorado and its chapters. Vetted by subject matter experts, PACT guarantees students will learn residential construction focused skills, receive hands-on training, and master the knowledge needed for an entry-level job in the building industry.
PACT is:
- 75% hands on, competency-based, industry-validated curriculum
- Closely aligned with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
- One of three national curricula recognized and approved by the US Department of Labor
- Available with Spanish translation
The Classes
The Careers In Construction program offers four Core Training Classes and ten Trade specific classes from which participating schools can choose. The program integrates performance-based learning in the building trades with vocational and academic skills training and includes life skills, critical thinking, career development, and on-the-job training.
Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT):
| Unit 1 | Introduction to the Building Trades |
| Unit 2 | Construction Math |
| Unit 3 | Tool Identification & Construction Materials |
| Unit 4 | Employability Skills |
| Unit 5 | Green Building |
| Unit 6 | Carpentry |
| Unit 7 | Electrical |
| Unit 8 | Plumbing |
| Unit 9 | Brick Masonry |
| Unit 10 | Landscaping |
| Unit 11 | Painting & Finishing |
| Unit 12 | Building Construction Technology |
| Unit 13 | Weatherization |
| Unit 14 | Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning |
Job Placement
All students participating in the program are eligible to receive personalized job and internship placement assistance through BUILT NoCO. This includes:
Resume Building
Creating or updating resumes so students present their skills with confidence.
Interview Coaching
Developing interview skills through guided practice and constructive feedback.
Mock Interviews
Conducting mock interviews that prepare students for real-world conversations.
Career Fair Prep
Preparing students to stand out at job and career fairs with professionalism.
Opportunity Matching
Matching students to job opportunities based on grade, skill level, interests and availability.
The CICC Organization
Careers in Construction Colorado operates in all four corners of the state using the Chapter and Satellite model. CICC Chapters are trade associations in the construction industry that support schools by facilitating the program, bringing industry partners into the classroom, and hiring program graduates. Satellite schools are rural schools that do not have a nearby trade association or supporting organization. The Satellite schools are supported by CICC.
This model has been successful in taking Careers in Construction state-wide with more opportunity to expand to more schools