Construction Trades
Why choose Construction Trades?
- Construction work is about using your skills to solve problems on the job site—no two days are alike.
- Demand is always high for construction workers, and high salaries are common for more advanced skills.
- A great career for those looking to avoid or break out of the office cubicle.
- Twelve-credit program designed for completion in one semester.
The construction trades include many different jobs and career paths, from carpentry, to electrical, to plumbing, to pipe fitting, and much more. What construction workers have in common is the ability to use their hands and skills to help build things people depend on—the buildings we work in, the homes we live and play in, and more. It’s honest, satisfying work that makes the world go around.
Construction workers are skilled by definition, and they are always learning and growing in their abilities. Some work for residential or commercial contractors, while others own their own business.
Program Locations
Wisconsin Rapids Campus
500 32nd Street North
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494
Delivery:
In Person
Daytime
Full-Time or Part-Time
16-Week Classes or Varying Class Schedule
Length of Program: Short Term
Credits: 11
Start Dates: Fall or Spring
Start at any time or location by taking general education courses
What You'll Learn
Mid-State’s Construction Trades technical diploma provides the foundation knowledge and experience to get started in the construction, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and pipefitting fields. Graduates understand the various components of building construction systems as well as proper and safe tool use and installation techniques for piping, heating, and electrical systems. Successful completion of the diploma prepares students for an entry-level position in the construction trades industry.
The program includes work in an interactive hands-on lab and a year-round larger lab complete with an "indoor house." Through exposure to multiple fields and industries, graduates are prepared to enter the trade they choose.
Estimated Entire Program Cost
Cost based on the 2023/24 academic year.
- Tuition & Fees: $1,991.70
- Books: $269.10
- Supplies, Uniforms, and/or Exams: $0
- Total Estimated Cost: $2,260.80
Financial Aid Eligibility
This program is NOT eligible for Financial Aid. Explore other ways to help pay for college.
Cost of Attendance
Learn more about Cost of Attendance, an estimated budget that includes categories of expenses a student can expect to incur while attending.
This course has options available to receive credit for prior learning (CPL) or work experience.
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10601140 | Electricity for the Construction Trades | 2 | |
| 10482107 | Construction Fundamentals | 2 | |
| 10483121 | Piping Applications | 3 | |
| 10601130 | Blueprint Reading for Construction Trades | 2 | |
| 10476171 | Safety for Construction Trades | 1 | |
| 10442117 | Welding Fundamentals 1 | 1 | |
| Term Total | 11 Credits | ||
| Program Total | 11 Credits |
Instructors
MARK HAFERMAN, AD
Mark earned his associate degree in industrial mechanical technologies from Mid-State Technical College. He is also a licensed Journeyman Steamfitter and Journeyman Plumber with EPA 608 certification. His teaching at Mid-State draws on 12 years of experience in HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical field service.
“Being a trades instructor is very fulfilling for me. I love to pour into students, share what I have learned through experience, work alongside them, and help them pursue their career in the trades.”
GREG ENGEN, AS
Greg earned his associate of science in building and energy management from Western Technical College (WTC) in La Crosse. He is a credentialed Photovoltaic (PV) Associate by the NABCEP and holds a PV Design and Installation Certificate from WTC. Now in his second year of teaching, Greg brings many years of field experience to the classroom, including ten years in construction and five years in the solar industry. He is passionate about safety, quality construction, and energy efficiency and continues to work and educate himself in carpentry and solar in his off time.
“My work and education in construction has allowed me to bring real-world experience and knowledge to the classroom. This field is always changing, and I aim to stay on top of current practices and technology to prepare students as they build a career in whatever industry they choose.”
Careers
- Electrical Contracting Laborer
- Carpentry Contracting Laborer
- Plumbing Contracting Laborer
- Apprenticeship
- General Construction Laborer
- Steamfitting Contracting Laborer
- Construction Wireman
Fast-Track
High school students are eligible to enroll in this program and all courses required. Learn more about Mid-State Fast-Track.
Take the Next Step
"Mid-State prepares you by providing hands-on training from passionate instructors, cutting edge facilities, and real-life experiences."
RICHARD VAN DER GEEST
GRADUATE
Choose Your Path
Career pathways help you take your education one step at a time to maximize your investment and make college fit your life. Earn a credential and start using it in the workforce. Continue with another stack of related courses to gain a more advanced diploma or degree.
Transfer • Dual Credit • Credit for Prior Learning
