The Upper Peninsula Construction Council (UPCC), in partnership with UP Michigan Works! and local education agencies (ISDs and RESAs), is now accepting applications for the 2026 Building Trades Summer Camp.
This five-week, hands-on program introduces high school students to careers in the union construction industry. Participants will explore multiple skilled trades, develop practical skills, and gain exposure to real-world job site environments in a structured and supervised setting.
The program is industry-developed and directly connected to career pathways in high-demand construction fields. Students will also earn $14 per hour during the program, with an additional $200 bonus upon successful completion.
The 2026 camp will run from July 6 through August 5 in Marquette. Students must commit to the full program and will work one of two four-hour shifts, Monday through Thursday. All participants will attend Friday morning field trips in partnership with MiSTEM.
Registration will remain open through April 30, 2026. Every student who applies will attend resume writing and interview skills workshops provided by UP Michigan Works. After completing the workshops, applicants will be interviewed, and finalists will be selected. Once hired, students will participate in a financial literacy workshop.
Students must also participate in a safety workshop with the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration before stepping onto any construction site.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
• Ages 14–17
• Incoming high school freshman through senior
• Able to commit to the full five-week program
• Reliable transportation
• Residence within 45 minutes of Marquette
• Availability for one shift (7:30–11:30 a.m. or 12:00–4:00 p.m., Monday–Thursday) and Friday morning field trips (7:30–11:30 a.m.)
HOW TO APPLY: Applications will be available beginning April 1. Interested students and families are encouraged to apply early, as space is limited.
Participating Trades:
- International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Local 1011
- Operating Engineers Local 324
- Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 2
- UA Plumbers, Pipefitters & HVAC Local 111
- International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 906
- Sheet Metal Workers International Association Local 7
- Ironworkers Local 8
- Boilermakers Local 169
- Laborers’ Union Local 1329
- Carpenters and Millwrights Local 1510
About the UPCC: The Upper Peninsula Construction Council is the premier group of signatory contractors and building trades professionals working together to advance the best construction practices in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
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