Professional Foundations is a new pilot program at Kilroy’s Workshop for adults 18 and up who want a real trade skill without a year of school or a mountain of debt. Here is how it works, in plain terms.

The format

Six weeks. One day per week. You pick one of two tracks:

  • Welding Foundations (GMAW / MIG). Practical skills in MIG welding, material preparation, fit-up and mild-steel fabrication.
  • Foundations of Construction. Choose an emphasis in plumbing, electrical or HVAC and build hands-on skills for professional trade work.

Both tracks are taught in the shop, on real equipment, by people who do the work.

The money

The program costs $1,250. Two grants bring your cost to $250:

  • $500 from the Jobber and America’s Family/1848 partnership grant
  • $500 from the AITS and Kilroy’s grant

The grants are applied for you. You pay $250.

Your first customer

This is the part that makes the program different. We help you get set up with Jobber to manage your business operations and start building a professional portfolio. After you complete the program and pass the final practical assessment, Kilroy’s Workshop becomes your first customer through a paid project suited to your skills. Project scope, price and timing are agreed separately.

How to apply

Space in the pilot is limited and an intake interview is required. The application takes about three minutes. Submitting it is your request for an interview; we’ll contact you by email or phone to set a time.

Professional Foundations is offered in partnership with Jobber, America’s Family, 1848 and AITS.

More articles and books