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Community Trades and Apprenticeships Program (CTAP)

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Powered by the Chicago Urban League

Welcome to The Community Trades & Apprenticeship Program (CTAP) Hands-On Electrical Training. High-Paying Results. Fueling the Future’s Electrical Infrastructure.

About the Program

In just 22 weeks, launch your career in electrical and renewable energy trades — free training, real certifications, career opportunities.

About the Program (text edits)

Our Electrical Jobs Training is a 123-hour program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on lab activities, providing a well-rounded foundation for entry-level career pathways in the trades.

Participants will gain valuable knowledge in carpentry, electrical systems, and industry best practices. 

Why Choose This Program?

  • 2025 Cohort 77% of the students placed in Solar & Electrical Careers; 36% of them management; 18% Electrical, 46% Installers
  • 2024 Cohort 86.67% of the students were placed in Solar Careers, 30.77% were returning citizens. 15.38% of the students placed in solar jobs became electrical apprentices on the path to become electricians.
  • 2023 & 2024 our highest our Suma Cum Laude both were women in a male dominated industry
  • The training consists of 50% hands-on experience and 50% classroom instruction, combining comprehensive lessons with real-world lab exercises for a well-rounded learning experience.

Program Highlights

  • 10 weeks  (2-Certifications) Core Construction & Construction Site Safety
  • 12 week (1- Certification) Electrical Level 1, with integrated Solar PV concepts 
  • OSHA 10
  • Intro to Electrical- Circuits, Codes, Piping Bending
  • Hands-on lab activities – Industry recognized hours for each NCCER modules
  • Training provided industry recognized credentials (IRC). Certification accredited by National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

Take the First Step Toward a Sustainable Career:

  1. Workforce Orientation
    • When: Thursdays at 10:00 a.m.
    • Where: Chicago Urban League, 4510 S. Michigan Ave.
    • Question: success@chiul.org
  2. Success Strategies Week
    • When: 1 week Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (after completing orientation)
    • Note: This is a required job readiness training that must be scheduled during the Workforce Orientation.
    • We also use this as a way to access candidates job reediness we consider referrals and feedback from our Success Coach
  3. Career Pathway Advising (Optional but Recommended)
    • After completing Workforce Orientation and Success Strategies, you may schedule time to meet with me (Candace Collins) for Career Development, to discuss your interests, and next steps.
    • I am available by appointment.
    • Appointments will not be available if Step 1 and 2 are not  in progress or complete.

Candidates that apply should prepare to:

Take the Following Assessments:

  • Construction Math Test
  • Physical Fitness Test
  • Drug Test
  • Background Check
  • Reading Test
  • Interview

Provide the Following Documents:

  • Birth Certificate
  • State ID or Driver’s License
  • Social Security Card
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Resume

 

Learn More and Apply Today

Get started on your journey in solar energy. To learn more or sign up for the next training session, contact us:

Email: cacollins@chiul.org

Website: www.chiul.org

Empowering Communities. Transforming Futures.

The Chicago Urban League is committed to providing access to career pathways that make a difference.