SEMCA FAQ

A registered apprenticeship is a training system that produces highly skilled workers to meet the demands of employers competing in a global economy. A proven strategy, registered apprenticeship ensures quality training by combining on-the-job training with theoretical practical classroom instruction to prepare exceptional workers for the industry.

The length of training depends on the trade, however, most trades are 4-year programs that require apprentices to attend school 2 nights per week for 3 hours.

No, a student with little or not constructions experience is able to enroll in our school. We do not guarantee employment, but we do offer career services.

We think it’s important to practice what you’re learning. That’s why we incorporate hands-on training into all of our programs and utilize out 20,000 square foot shop space as much as possible.

Yes, you can utilize VA benefits to pay for SEMCA tuition. You may also be eligible to receive credit for your military training!

All students may be advanced in the beginning program if they can prove they have sufficient ability by taking a pass-through exam. Students must also provide paper documentation for any on-the-job experience.

No, NCCER credentials are portable, stackable, and recognized nation-wide.

For those wanting to become an electrician…

An apprenticeship is a requirement. You must be enrolled in a state-approved education program in order to work legally.  Some unscrupulous companies may offer to hire an entry-level electrician who hasn’t enrolled in school.  Unfortunately, those arrangements cheat the employee, as their on-the-job hours won’t ultimately count towards their journeyman card.  Such a highly sought after credential makes the employee in-demand among employers, and in almost all cases, results in significant pay increases. 

For trades workers wanting to enter a non-licensed field…

• If education is not a requirement of your future career, why spend the time and money to get a formal education anyway?

You are investing in yourself!  It’s something no one can ever take away.  A formal education:

• Increases the Likelihood of Securing a Good-Paying Job — For unskilled people wanting to be introduced to the world of construction, enrolling in a formal education program sends a message to prospective employers that you’re serious about your career. SEMCA receives calls frequently from employers seeking unemployed students.  We frequently don’t have enough available students to meet employer demands.

• Enhances Skills Beyond What You Normally Learn at Work – Let’s face it, when you first start out in the construction industry, you don’t have a broad set of skills.  Employers will likely have you do the same repetitive tasks at each jobsite to ensure a high level of productivity.  If your skills are in hanging ceiling tile but your employer needs a rough framer or finish carpenter for the next project, you’re likely to be overlooked.  For SEMCA students, they’ve been learning a variety of skills outside their typical work day, so they’re ready to take on a new role as soon as the opportunity presents itself.  The more diverse skills you bring to your employer, the more you’re worth as an employee.

• Helps Build a Strong Network of Contacts in Construction —  SEMCA students are exposed to hundreds of construction workers throughout southeast Michigan.  You can’t get that kind of exposure anywhere else.  Your classmates can be helpful in sharing job openings at their current companies and even put in a good word with their boss.

• SEMCA places a strong focus on face-to-face instruction – While you might be able to find some cheaper training elsewhere, those are online-based programs where you watch Youtube videos and read PowerPoint slides to teach yourself.  There’s no dynamic classroom discussions, hands-on work or professionals to ask questions to.  You’re on your own and that’s not how you best learn.

• Construction Education Provided at a Reasonable Cost – The construction training program advertising you see on TV normally costs a fortune.  Four years of SEMCA tuition often costs less than one year at these schools. 

• Learn While You Earn – SEMCA’s training model is based on the idea that you are working in the field while you go to school.  You don’t have to attend school full time and complete the coursework before you get out onto the construction jobsite.  Many employers will pay for their employees’ schooling, if you can demonstrate your contributions and commitment to your company. 

• SEMCA Was Created by Employers in Construction – While other programs are focused on education solely, SEMCA was created by employers to help create the next generation of skilled workers.  SEMCA isn’t just interested in your tuition payment.  Education isn’t the final goal for us – having you employed in the industry is.