Arkansas Tech Career Center has partnered with Associated Builders and Contractors of Arkansas (ABC) to create a pre-apprenticeship opportunity for high school students preparing for careers in electrical, plumbing, HVAC and construction trades.
The collaboration supports the Arkansas Certified Pre-Apprenticeship Program (ARPAP) through the Arkansas Department of Commerce and the Arkansas Office of Skills Development. Through the program, students can complete 80 construction credit hours.
These hours can transfer into electrical, construction, HVAC, ironworker, plumbing and industrial maintenance registered apprenticeships. This structure allows students to earn up to one year of related training instruction (RTI) while still in high school, helping prepare them to enter the workforce.
“We are excited to be working with ABC Arkansas to strengthen the bridge between high school and high-demand careers,” said Bill Mizaur, ATCC director. “Through these pre-apprenticeship opportunities, our students gain real-world skills, valuable industry connections and a clear pathway into the workforce. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to investing in the next generation of Arkansas’ skilled professionals, and we are proud to provide students with opportunities that prepare them for success.”
For more information about Arkansas Tech Career Center, visit www.atu.edu/careercenter.
