Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus and Arkansas Tech Career Center (ATCC) are partnering with Yates-Nabholz to launch a new carpentry apprenticeship program beginning Jan. 18, 2027.
The partnership will provide high school students and adults from the Arkansas River Valley with an opportunity to gain marketable construction skills through a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training.
Hosted at ATCC in Russellville, the four-year apprenticeship is designed to prepare participants for careers in the construction industry by developing the skills and experience needed to advance in the carpentry trade. The program is open to individuals age 16 and older, including current ATCC high school students and adults interested in pursuing a career in construction.
“A career in construction can offer great wages, benefits and opportunities for advancement,” said David Nabholz, Nabholz chairman of the board. “This apprenticeship class will help you develop on-the-job skills for a career path as a master carpenter, foreman or superintendent.”
The apprenticeship combines 576 hours of related classroom instruction with up to 8,000 hours of on-the-job training. Participants will follow the NCCER carpentry curriculum and receive OSHA 10 training provided by Nabholz. The program will also offer opportunities for hands-on learning and jobsite experience, helping participants develop practical skills that can translate directly into the construction workforce.
“Our partnership with Yates-Nabholz reflects our commitment to connecting education with workforce opportunities,” said Bill Mizaur, ATCC director. “Led by one of our own ATCC construction instructors, this evening apprenticeship class gives high school students and adults the opportunity to develop valuable, hands-on skills that can lead directly to employment in the construction industry. Together, we are creating pathways from education to employment while helping meet the workforce needs of our region.”
The program is free to participants, making it an accessible opportunity for individuals interested in developing a career in the skilled trades. Graduates and participants may have opportunities to interview for internships or employment with Yates-Nabholz, subject to the company’s standard hiring requirements. Participation in the apprenticeship does not guarantee employment.
Classes will meet Monday evenings from 5–9 p.m. at ATCC’s Russellville campus, which is located at 2201 S. Knoxville Avenue. Some scheduling flexibility may be available for working participants who need a later start time.
Enrollment is limited to 20 participants. Applications must be submitted by Dec. 10, 2026. Due to anticipated interest and limited availability, finalists will be selected through an interview process. Interviews are scheduled to begin Dec. 10, with final selections expected by Dec. 18.
Adults and eligible high school students interested in applying can complete the online application at:
https://eform.pandadoc.com/?eform=7dcd1576-7562-4105-9fb3-5e2cdf25f446
For more information about Arkansas Tech Career Center and its workforce training opportunities, visit www.atu.edu/careercenter.
