Are you considering a career in the building trades? Do you have basic construction skills and want to learn more about how craftspeople preserve Rhode Island’s historic buildings? If so, read on! 

PPS offers a paid eight-week program (August 1-September 23, 2022) that provides on-the-job training in the historic building trades. Participants will be paired with a local preservation business and work alongside skilled craftspeople during the program’s duration. Trainees can expect to learn how to understand, assess, repair, and maintain historic buildings while participating in the business’ day-to-day operations. The entry-level work will vary. In a given week, you could find yourself restoring 100+ year-old wooden doors and windows, repairing roofing and gutters, or improving a 19th-century house’s energy efficiency. Some participants may work on new construction projects in addition to historical properties. Overall, trainees should expect to engage in a variety of activities while supporting the work crew.  

Additionally, all trainees will gather weekly to receive additional instruction in different heritage building trades, learn about historic preservation practices, and visit local businesses and historical properties.  

This program gives participants an invaluable opportunity to see how preservation craftspeople work, learn new skills, and gain experience in a high-demand industry.

APPLY HERE

If you have questions about the program or the application process, let us know!

Requirements

• You must be 18+ and a Rhode Island resident.
• You must be under/unemployed.
• Most important is your ability to commit to the full 8-week program.
• Beginner familiarity with carpentry is highly encouraged
• Able to lift 25 lbs. and be on your feet much of the day.  

This training program is being offered from August 1-September 23, 2022. The workday is 7:30 am-4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Trainees must participate in the full program.

Trainees make $17/hour and are paid biweekly.

Application Process

To apply for one of the spots in our 2022 program, you must complete a basic application by June 23 AND attend one of two virtual information sessions being held on June 21 at 12:00 pm & June 23 at 5:30 pm.

• Step 1: Apply online
• Step 2: Register for info session

Interviews will take place July 5-13, and applicants will be notified of their acceptance by July 18.