SOUTHFIELD, MI — Barton Malow Boot Camp, a six-week paid work experience program that provides an opportunity for Michigan residents between the ages of 18 and 24 to learn construction industry fundamentals, has been named one of five TradesFutures-approved Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) pre-apprenticeship programs in the state of Michigan.
This recognition underscores the program’s commitment to preparing young people and transitioning adults for successful careers in the construction trades. By equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge, Barton Malow Boot Camp not only opens doors to career opportunities but also addresses the growing demand for skilled labor in the construction industry.
“The Barton Malow Boot Camp was designed to provide hands-on experience and real-world exposure to careers in the skilled trades, helping to bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity,” said Dannis Mitchell, Barton Malow Senior Director of Community Engagement. “By equipping participants with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to succeed, we’re not just building projects — we’re building the next generation of talented industry leaders.”
Developed in 2008 by North America’s Building Trades Unions, the MC3 is a comprehensive apprenticeship readiness training program. It consists of 120 hours of instruction covering essential topics such as an industry orientation, OSHA 10, tools and materials, and construction math. The MC3 curriculum aims to better expose trainees to the expectations of the unions’ registered apprenticeship programs, thereby enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of Barton Malow Boot Camp.
Barton Malow sought MC3 approval to leverage a program recognized and accepted by its union partners. This strategic move increases the chances of Barton Malow’s candidates being accepted into registered apprenticeship programs. The MC3 not only aligns with the union standards but also represents a continuous effort to improve the boot camp and strengthen partnerships with the unions.
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The journey to MC3 approval involved establishing agreements with local partners that outlined roles, responsibilities, and necessary assistance. The local Building Trades Council and TradesFutures then developed and approved an implementation plan. Following this, a draft schedule was created, and trainers were identified.
“We are excited to provide the MC3 curriculum to our participants,” said Hernando Flowers, Barton Malow Workforce Development Manager. “Through this, we can leverage the expertise of our Union Trade Partners and better set our candidates up for success at the next level. Integration of the MC3 reinforces our commitment to enhancing our workforce and providing realistic training that is transferable to an actual construction site.”
Created in 2016, the Barton Malow Boot Camp focuses on providing applicable residents with the training needed to enter a career in the skilled trades. The program is an industry outreach collaborative with Barton Malow clients, local government officials, trade unions, and professional development partners that seeks to create a viable talent pool to support the industry’s trade labor shortage. Over 150 participants have completed the boot camp since its launch. The first boot camp incorporating the MC3 curriculum is scheduled for fall 2025 in Michigan.
