Pathway to Trades is your opportunity to gain essential skills in either woodworking or metalworking. Each 12-week cohort focuses on one discipline at a time, giving participants hands-on experience in either wood shop or metal shop techniques.

Designed for beginners and those looking to expand their skill set, this program combines guided instruction with real-world practice to build confidence and competence in the shop. Participants will attend weekly instructor-led sessions to develop core skills like measuring, assembly, and safe tool use. Through a series of small to medium-sized projects, you’ll gain practical experience and leave with tangible work to showcase your progress.

Whether you’re exploring a career in the trades or honing hands-on skills for personal projects, this program is designed to support your goals and give you the skills you need to take the next step.

Program Goals

• Career Readiness: Equip yourself with the skills necessary for a successful career in the trades. Whether you’re pursuing apprenticeships or starting your own venture, this program sets the foundation.
• Skill Development: Master essential techniques in woodworking and metalworking to become job-ready.
• Safety Awareness: Learn to work safely with industrial tools and equipment—your safety is our priority.
• Project Portfolio: Build real-world projects to showcase your skills and demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers or clients.

Syllabus & Schedule

The Pathway to Trades program runs for 12 weeks, balancing instructor-led sessions with independent project time. Participants will engage in hands-on projects—such as furniture assembly or metalwork—while earning key badges to demonstrate their skills.

The syllabus and schedule below are sample versions to give you an idea of what to expect. Finalized versions are provided at the start of each cohort.

Download the sample syllabus and schedule below for an overview of the program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can join the Pathway to Trades program? This program is open to individuals interested in building practical skills in the trades. Beginners and experienced learners are welcome.

Do I need prior experience with tools or fabrication? No prior experience is required. This program is designed for beginners and will teach the basics of woodworking and metalworking.

What happens if I miss a session? Please let us know ahead of time if you need to miss a session. We will do our best to help you catch up.

Are materials provided, or do I need to bring my own? Materials are provided for most projects, though some specific items may need to be sourced independently.

Can I join if I’m not a MakeHaven member? You will need to join MakeHaven as a member to participate in this program and gain full access to tools and resources.

What are badges? Badges are micro-credentials that demonstrate proficiency with specific tools and techniques. They allow independent access to tools at MakeHaven.