MRC Building and Construction Class Trip

Students from the Mark Richardson Center’s (MRC) Building and Construction class recently visited the Western States Carpenters Union Training Center. During the trip, they gained insight into the benefits and challenges of joining a union, as well as the pathways to becoming an apprentice and eventually a journeyman.

The students found the experience especially engaging, as much of their coursework is directly connected to the Carpenters Union. The MRC’s Building and Construction course is considered a pre-apprenticeship and allows students to be considered for job placement based on the certification they attain.

“There was so much to learn at the union,’’ said student Cashton Tucker, who attends Righetti HS. “I had no idea that the Carpenters Union were involved in so many trades and jobs. I thought they were just framers.’’

“I really enjoy watching my students realize that this is not an easy path and really hard work,’’ said MRC Building and Construction Teacher Glen Holmes. “The apprentice students are grown men and women at the training center. It looks very different from high school, and the experience can be shocking for some students.’’

The training center is located in Santa Maria.

The SMJUHSD has nearly 40 Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathways and numerous industry partners.

SMJUHSD Media Contact: Public Information Officer Kenny Klein