Construction Trades

Why Construction Trades?

Construction is a hands-on career built on problem-solving, teamwork, and tangible results. In this program, you will learn essential skills used on job sites every day, from reading blueprints and operating tools to understanding building materials and safety practices. You will gain practical experience that prepares you to contribute to major projects and start a rewarding career in the construction industry.

At Mid-State, you will train in an interactive, year-round construction lab that includes a full indoor house for real project practice. You’ll complete a ten-credit program in one semester, building the skills and confidence that can lead directly to employment in a high-demand field.

Develop foundational construction skills through hands-on training in a full lab setting.
Gain practical experience completing real projects that mirror industry work.
Build teamwork, safety awareness, and problem-solving abilities.
Learn to use modern tools and techniques used by today’s construction professionals.
Train in a supportive environment with small class sizes and expert instructors.
Start your construction career in just one semester with flexible class scheduling.

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Program Facts

Total Credits

11 Credits

Degree Type

Technical Degree

Program Length

Less Than One Year

Delivery Method

In Person

Location

Wisconsin Rapids

Start Dates

Fall, Spring

Estimated Program Cost

$2,448.65

View Cost of Attendance

Financial Aid Eligibility

Not Eligible

View Types of Aid

Program Outcomes

Graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers. Each year, data from Mid-State's Graduate Survey and statewide reports show consistently high satisfaction and strong starting salaries. Here's a snapshot of what success looks like after graduation.

Career Opportunities

Electrical Contracting Laborer

Carpentry Contracting Laborer

General Construction Laborer

Plumbing Contracting Laborer

$51k Median Annual Salary

Recent program grads in Wisconsin earned a starting salary of $50,557. Source: Lightcast Data Set

1,360

Average Monthly Hires

1,360 of recent Wisconsin program grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. Source: Lightcast Data Set

100%

Mid-State Graduate Satisfaction Rate

Students leave proud, prepared, and confident in what comes next. Source: Mid-State Graduate Survey Results

Program Details

Take a closer look at what the program offers and what to expect.

Program Courses

Your course plan may vary, and you'll get a recommended sequence once you're enrolled. See below for full course details, see the program information guide, or talk with your advisor.

Program Information Guide (PDF)

Instructors

Meet our full-time instructors.

Mark Haferman, AD
Mark earned his associate degree in industrial mechanical technologies from Mid-State Technical College. He is also a licensed Journeyman Steamfitter and Journeyman Plumber with EPA 608 certification. His teaching at Mid-State draws on 12 years of experience in HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical field service.

“Being a trades instructor is very fulfilling for me. I love to pour into students, share what I have learned through experience, work alongside them, and help them pursue their career in the trades.”

Karl Schwingel, BS
Karl graduated from Northland College with a bachelor of science in environmental science. His certifications include Solar Thermal Installer by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners® (NABCEP®) and EPA 608. Karl’s teaching is informed by 25 years of experience installing and servicing renewable energy systems and doing general residential construction as well as 15 years specializing in hydronic heating system design, construction, and service.

“I really enjoy developing in my students the skill to ask the right questions, in the right way. If you learn to ask the right questions, the answers will yield actionable knowledge.”

Program Outcomes

Employers will expect graduates of this program to be able to:

Demonstrate construction safety.
Use construction tools and equipment.
Interpret construction documents and blueprints.
Construct a building structure using wood framing techniques.
Recognize plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems.
Comply with all applicable standards, policies, and procedures, including safety procedures and the maintenance of a clean work area.

Employability Skills

Alongside your career training, you'll develop key workplace strengths. Explore the additional skills you'll build.

Employability Skills (PDF)

Technical Standards

To succeed in this program, you'll need to meet certain technical standards. These are the key skills and abilities needed for the program and future career success—with or without reasonable accommodations. Be sure to review them carefully before you apply.

Technical Standards (PDF)

Career pathways help you build your education step by step. Each stage offers one or more credentials that are recognized by employers and lead to real jobs—and you can keep building toward your career goals as you go.

Prior Learning

Certificate

Technical Diploma

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Get credit for what you already know. You may be able to earn college credit for prior learning through skills you’ve gained through high school classes, previous college work, self-study, military training, jobs, or volunteer experience.

Credit for Prior Learning
High School Dual Credit
Mid-State Fast-Track – Open to high school students

“I couldn't have asked for a better education. My instructors were some of the most incredible people, and they were willing to do whatever was necessary to help everyone.”

- Leslie T.

Mid-State Grad

“Mid-State’s hands-on learning, convenient scheduling, updated technology, and instructors who can relate to the field have all helped me become successful and even advance in my career in under a year.”

- Stephanie B.

Mid-State Grad

“I value my experience at Mid-State tremendously. Even with a disability my education gave me the opportunity to join the workforce before I even graduated. Education equals opportunity.”

- Jake A.

Mid-State Grad

“My degree from Mid-State and the encouragement I received from my teachers gave me the skills and confidence to move forward in my life and excel in my career.”

- Sharon R.

Mid-State Grad

“The education I received at Mid-State has been invaluable. It built a foundation that is endlessly improving, providing excellent growth opportunities in my career.”

- Kevin B.

Mid-State Grad

“Most students go to college to find good-paying careers doing something they enjoy. Mid-State gave me that and so much more, as I discovered my passion and achieved more than I ever could have anticipated.”

- Bryce C.

Mid-State Grad