Raising the BAR
Raising the Bar
Free, Six-Week Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Free, 6-Week Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Raising the Bar is the Baltimore-D.C. Metro Building Trades’ six-week pre-apprenticeship program. Through this program, we invest in the next generation of union construction workers, providing a pathway to a great career in the building trades.
Operating in Baltimore, Prince George’s County and the District of Columbia — in partnership with the Construction Trades Workforce Initiative (CTWI) — the program offers participants and their families a ladder of opportunity into the middle class through the union construction trades.
Participants in the Raising the Bar Winter 2025 Baltimore cohort.
“Raising the Bar was very good for me. It gave me a lot of information. It gave me everything I need. It changed my life.
“Raising the Bar was very good for me. It gave me a lot of information. It gave me everything I need. It changed my life.
In Raising the Bar You Can:
In Raising the Bar You Can:
- Explore high-paying union careers.
- Learn hands-on construction skills.
- Practice math skills, update your resume and participate in mock interviews.
- Connect with tradespeople & employers.
Requirements
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Take math assessment
- Physically able to work
- Valid driver’s license
- Access to a vehicle
- 18+ years old
- Pass drug test
2026-2027 Raising the Bar Schedule
2026-2027 Raising the Bar Schedule
- Maryland Summer Cohort
July 20 to August 28, 2026 - DC Fall Cohort
October 5 to November 13, 2026 - Baltimore Winter 2027 Cohort
Will begin in February 2027
“We were able to participate in hands-on projects that were relevant to the specific trade during our visit.”
“We were able to participate in hands-on projects that were relevant to the specific trade during our visit.”
Participants in the Raising the Bar Winter 2025 Baltimore cohort.