In the Saint Joseph’s Building and Trades Program, we redefine hands-on training by giving students the opportunity to build a full-sized house on our property, which will be offered for sale to the public upon completion. This real-world experience sets our program apart, allowing students to apply their skills in an actual home construction project from start to finish.

Our curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on training, covering blueprint reading, framing, measuring and cutting materials, and building codes. Students will receive personalized guidance from experienced instructors, ensuring a deeper understanding of carpentry techniques.

By working with professional-grade tools and materials, students master everything from structural framing to finishing work. Building a real home not only builds confidence, but also provides practical experience that translates directly into the workforce, making our graduates well-prepared for careers in the trades.

Students will gain hands-on experience in a wide range of construction projects, including:

• • Foundation & Framing
  • Exterior Work
  • Interior Work
  • Roofing & Finishing

• • Safety on the worksite
  • Reading and interpreting blueprints
  • Measuring, marking, and cutting materials accurately
  • Using hand and power tools safely
  • Building codes and safety regulations
  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting construction challenges

Graduates of Saint Joseph’s Building and Trades Program have access to a wide range of career opportunities, thanks to our strong partnerships with trade unions and industry leaders across Indiana. Our program provides a direct pathway into apprenticeships with respected unions, offering graduates the chance to earn competitive wages while continuing to develop their skills under experienced professionals.

Beyond union opportunities, Indiana’s construction industry is experiencing steady growth, creating high demand for skilled carpenters in residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Our graduates leave the program with the hands-on experience and industry connections needed to succeed in the workforce.

Saint Joseph’s College is proud to recognize the generous support of our Building and Trades Program sponsors. These companies and organizations play a crucial role in equipping students with the tools, materials, and resources they need to gain hands-on experience in the trades. Their contributions help prepare the next generation of skilled professionals while strengthening our commitment to workforce development. Thank you for building the future with us!

• • 128 Core Partners
  • American Legion Post 29
  • Catholic Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana
  • Circle Supply Inc.
  • Crown Brick & Supply
  • Culp Ag Trucking LLC
  • DeZigns by Cindy
  • GAF Materials LLC
  • Genova Pipe
  • Gold Bond Building Products
  • IKORCC (Indiana-Kentucky-Ohio Regional Council of Carpenters)
  • Kem's Hardware & Lumber
  • National Gypsum Products
  • Ozinga Concrete
  • Proform Finishing Products
  • Richards Building Supply
  • Rios Granite Corp.
  • Security Doors Inc.
  • Sherwin Williams Paint
  • Shorty's BP & Good Oil
  • Spears Manufacturing Co. Inc.
  • Steve Hoyes Electric
  • Town & Country Paving
  • Wayne Dalton Garage Doors

Contact us to learn how you can help support the Saint Joseph’s Building and Trades program.

Dennis Black
Campus Facilities Supervisor
dblack2@saintjoe.edu
219-866-6000