At the Treasure Coast Builders Association Charitable Foundation, we’re proud to collaborate with a network of community partners offering career exploration, hands-on training, certifications, and other valuable resources.
Whether you’re an individual seeking opportunities or a business looking to connect with local talent, our partners are here to help you succeed. Explore the list below to find programs and services that match your needs and goals and click the embedded link on each location name to be directed to their website.
Together, we’re building a better future for our community, one career at a time.
Pre-Apprenticeship Programs (16-24 years old)
Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County (BGCMC)
BGCMC's Skilled Trades Program is a Registered Pre-apprenticeship program and is a great way to start exploring careers in construction. Â BGCMC is proud to partner with Florida Training Services, Inc. (FTS) who provides apprenticeship consulting throughout Florida by working with industries/organizations to help them enhance or create registered apprenticeship programs. They assist in program development, management, and administration using known and proven registered apprenticeship standards and curriculum from the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER). Our program combines performance-based learning in the building trades with vocational and academic skills training, encompassing life skills, career development, and on-the-job training. Â The course covers basic tools and materials, offers an overview of each trade, the qualifications and skills needed for each trade, and on-the-job training. Upon successful completion, each participant will earn an OSHA-10, Forklift, Aerial Lift, CPR, and an industry recognized registered apprenticeship certifications. Afterward, they can select a specific trade of interest (carpentry, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC), receive job placement in their chosen field, and continue their education with FTS to earn further certifications.
For additional information contact Scott Crumpler, College & Career Readiness Program Director at 772.545.1255 or scrumpler@bgcmartin.org
Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County
In partnership with Florida Training Services, our teens gain a competitive edge through a state-registered Pre-Apprenticeship program grounded in NCCER standards. Participants explore high-demand trades like carpentry, electrical, and HVAC while earning certifications in OSHA 10, CPR/First Aid, and equipment safety. With hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials, teens walk away with an experience that builds a career-ready future.
For info and a tour contact Cynthia Sanchez-Isaac, Director of Teen Initiatives csanchez@bgcofslc.org
Florida Training Services (FTS)
Florida Training Services, Inc. (FTS) provides registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship training throughout the Treasure Coast. It is a consulting service that works with many Industries to help them enhance or create Registered Apprenticeship programs throughout the state of Florida. FTS has over 50 years of experience working with the Registered Apprenticeship system in Florida. FTS’s Pre-apprenticeship construction multi-trade program is a great pathway to explore careers in construction. Pre-apprenticeship experience is beneficial in navigating into an apprenticeship program. FTS is sponsoring Pre-Apprenticeship programs with the Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy, Boys and Girls Club of Saint Lucie County, Boys and Girls Club of Martin County, Palm Beach County School District, and Saint Lucie County School District.
For more information: Call (877) 898-7246
Somerset Career Academy (SCA)
Somerset Career Academy (SCA), a workforce development initiative created by Somerset Principal, Erika Rains, provides an innovative path for students pursuing careers in skilled trades. Beginning as early as middle school, students will learn core academic subjects while earning certifications in OSHA, NCCER, and HBI. SCA offers various diploma options, including the 24-credit standard high school diploma, the CTE Diploma, etc. Our current programs running are Carpentry, Electrical, Welding, and Early Childhood Education. We will be adding more programs in the future!
For more details, please contact Ms. Shannon Murphy, our CTE Coordinator, at murphytshannon@somersetcareeracademy.org.
Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy
The Youth Guidance Pre-Apprenticeship Program is sponsored by Florida Training Services and includes 8 months of classroom and hands-on instruction. Students learn the basics of five trades (carpentry, electric, plumbing, and HVAC) and earn up to five professional certifications or training cards. The program is provided free of charge to youth ages 17-24 who live in Indian River County, Florida. Open enrollment will begin on July 1st, 2025.
For more information about the Youth Guidance Pre-Apprenticeship, call Executive Director, Phil Barnes, at 772-492-3933 ext. 6 or email pbarnes@youthguidanceprogram.org.
Apprenticeship Programs (18 +)
Florida Training Services (FTS)
Florida Training Services, Inc. (FTS) provides registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship training throughout the Treasure Coast. It is a consulting service that works with many Industries to help them enhance or create Registered Apprenticeship programs throughout the state of Florida. FTS has over 50 years of experience working with the Registered Apprenticeship system in Florida. FTS’s Pre-apprenticeship construction multi-trade program is a great pathway to explore careers in construction. Pre-apprenticeship experience is beneficial in navigating into an apprenticeship program. FTS is sponsoring Pre-Apprenticeship programs with the Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy, Boys and Girls Club of Saint Lucie County, Boys and Girls Club of Martin County, Palm Beach County School District, and Saint Lucie County School District.
For more information: Call (877) 898-7246
Indian River State College
Electrical, Plumbing, Diesel Technician, HVAC/R, Welding
Currently, Indian River State College offers a range of  tailored to the Treasure Coast economy. Each program requires a certain number of hours of on-the-job training along with classroom instruction. In addition, the College offers one-year programs in diesel technology, mechanical drafting, welding, and mechatronics. These programs combine 2,000 hours of hands-on training with targeted technical instruction. Consequently, students build skills quickly and enter the workforce with confidence.
For more information: Call 772-462-7390 or contact the Apprenticeship Office at apprenticeship@irsc.edu
Certification Programs
Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin CountyÂ
Drone
The TRUST Certification class provides a beginner-friendly introduction to drone piloting, designed for recreational drone operators. The TRUST certification, mandated by law, serves as a recreational pilot license for safe and compliant drone use. This class is open to Club members from 4th grade and up, teaching essential rules, regulations, and safety practices for responsible drone operation. After successfully completing the test and earning their TRUST certification, participants will receive a recreational pilot license. To enhance the experience, members can take to the skies with a DJI Tello drone, equipped with a front-facing camera and GPS for smoother, controlled flights. The class runs for about an hour and is limited to a maximum of six students per session, ensuring personalized attention and adequate flight time for each participant.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 Course is an essential steppingstone for individuals looking to enter the exciting and rapidly expanding field of drone operations. This comprehensive program is designed to prepare participants to earn their FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, which is required for legally piloting drones for commercial purposes in the United States. Participants will gain a solid foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. The course includes: Introduction to Drones and Regulations: Overview of drone technology, types of drones, and their uses. Understanding the FAA's Part 107 rules, compliance requirements, and certification process. Airspace and Weather: Navigating the National Airspace System (NAS) and identifying no-fly zones. Interpreting weather data critical for safe drone operations. Loading and Performance: Understanding how payloads, battery life, and environmental factors affect drone performance. Strategies for safe and efficient drone operation. Operations and Industry Applications: Hands-on training for drone piloting and mission planning. Case studies on how drones are used in various sectors like surveying, photography, and emergency response. This course not only equips participants with the knowledge to pass the FAA Part 107 exam but also provides practical insights and skills to excel in a competitive field.
For additional information contact Scott Crumpler, College & Career Readiness Program Director at 772.545.1255 or scrumpler@bgcmartin.org
Manufacturing 4.0
Manufacturing 4.0Â is a comprehensive, industry-focused training program crafted by experts to equip participants with practical, hands-on experience in essential electrical and mechanical skills. It is specifically designed to prepare young adults aged 16 to 24 for successful careers in modern manufacturing and to pass the Smart Automation Certification Association (SACA) Basic Operations exam. Participants in this program will gain foundational knowledge and practical skills in key areas such as:
Industrial Safety Practices, Residential Electrical Wiring, AC and DC Electrical Systems, Motor Control Systems, Precision Measuring and CAD Modeling, Robotics and System Automation.
For additional information contact Scott Crumpler, College & Career Readiness Program Director at 772.545.1255 or scrumpler@bgcmartin.org
Indian River State College
Residential Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating Systems Assistant
Gain the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to begin a career in the HVAC industry. This 12-credit technical certificate, taught at our Fort Pierce Campus, introduces the fundamentals of residential heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems through hands-on training and classroom instruction. This certificate can be completed in about 11 months (three semesters). The estimated cost of the program is $1,250, not including books and required tools.
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating Systems Certificate
Gain the advanced knowledge and hands-on skills needed to launch a career in the HVAC/R industry. This 24-credit technical certificate, taught at our Fort Pierce Campus, builds on the fundamentals of residential heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems, with training in electrical systems, heat pumps, heating and cooling load calculations, and HVAC service management. This certificate can be completed in about 18 months (five semesters). The estimated cost of the program is $2,800, not including books and required tools.
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC-R) I
This program prepares students for entry-level employment as mechanic assistants in the HVAC/R field. The curriculum consists of five courses totaling 750 clock hours and is taught at our Fort Pierce Campus, providing foundational training in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. This certificate can be completed in about 11 months (three semesters). The approximate cost of the program is $3,300.
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC-R) II
This program requires successful completion of HVAC/R 1 and prepares students for employment as HVAC/R mechanics. The curriculum provides advanced training in commercial installation, maintenance, and system diagnostics for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
Welding
Treasure Coast Technical College
The Treasure Coast Technical College is located in Vero Beach. Our mission is to serve our local community by providing high quality career and technical education resulting in a skilled workforce and rewarding careers. All programs are all aligned with state and industry standards and upon successful completion offer the opportunity to earn recognized industry credentials or licenses.
HVAC/R
The HVAC/R program is 750 hours (10 months) of instruction training individuals to attain an entry level position in the HVAC/R industry. The program utilizes both theory and practical application of materials to help the students gain needed knowledge and skills. Students will learn the how and why a procedure is done and will successfully demonstrate the practical application of the information in the classroom laboratory. Students who are successful in the program will sit for the EPA 608 and the HVAC Excellence - Air Conditioning industry certification.
Welding Technology
The Welding Technology program covers all 4 major welding processes including SMAW, GTAW, GMAW and FCAW. Also included is an in-depth study of the American Welding Society welding symbols and blueprint reading for welders. Additional training such as Torch and Plasma Cutting and Carbon Arc Gouging along with related equipment is also covered. Training will include basis to advance welding positions on plate and pipe as well as ferrous and non-ferrous metals. The program is full-time at approximately 1,050 hours (10 months). After completing the Welding Technology program, students are eligible to take the Certified Welder exam through the American Welding Society.
If you would like more information about the programs, please contact Laurel Evans, CTE Advisor at 772-564-5002 or Laurel.Evans@indianriverschools.org.
Career Training Programs
Project LIFT
At Project LIFT, we provide at-risk teens and young adults ages 14-24 with training in a variety of pre-apprenticeship trades, laying a strong foundation for apprenticeships and long-term career success. Our mentors, skilled professionals with training in mental health and substance abuse support, guide, and support participants through hands-on skill-building programs. In addition to trade training, we teach positive coping strategies, ensuring participants are well-prepared to excel in both life and the workforce. Locations in Belle Glade, Fort Pierce, Hobe Sound, and Stuart (Opening 2027).
Visit www.projectlift.org to fill out a secure referral form to be contacted with more information.
United Against Poverty
STEP Program (St. Lucie & Indian River Counties)
Success Training Employment Program (STEP)  is an adult workforce training program (18+) designed to help individuals overcome barriers to employment. Participants spend 4 weeks learning both the hard and soft skills required to help them secure living wage jobs. Once they obtain employment, each participant is paired with a Success Coach, who continues to work with them for three years to ensure long-term success.
For more information about the St. Lucie County campus call 772-468-8543. For more information about the Indian River Campus call 772-564-9365.
Build Up Program (Indian River County)
The Build UP program is a FREE 3-phase program at providing hands-on training and skills to secure in-demand, high paying employment in the growing trades, construction, and manufacturing fields. You will learn basic construction math, print reading, measuring, calculating, and so much more! Additional certifications you will receive are: OSHA 10, First Aid, and CPR. Craft an award-winning resume, prepare for and secure a job in the trades field.
For more information about the Indian River Campus call 772-564-9365.
Student Organizations
Chapters of the Future Builders of America
Chapters of the Future Builders of America are development programs in schools that offer drafting, construction and design related classes. The program links local professionals to their future workforce and building industry leaders. Guest speakers, field trips and opportunities for employment help introduce the students to rewarding futures in the construction industry.
Part of the benefits to hosting an FBA Chapter includes both State and National Competitions and the ability to participate in the Annual Leadership Summit.  The Summit is a 4-day hands-on training camp for students to explore various careers in fourteen different disciplines.  Additionally, the students participate in Soft Skills Training and several Team Building exercises.
For more information, please visit our website at www.FutureBuildersofAmerica.org or contact Cindy Hall - Cindy.Hall@HBI.org or 772-370-4713