Training Programs

Empowering the futures of low-income and very-low-income residents in underserved urban communities through training, jobs, and economic opportunity.

USDOL-Registered Apprenticeship Programs in Carpentry, Painting, and Roofing – Chicago

Since 1994, Do For Self Community Development Corporation has opened doors for Chicago’s Black and Brown communities by providing licensed, paid apprenticeship programs in high-demand trades. Designed for low-income youth, justice-involved individuals, and those historically excluded from economic opportunity, our time-based programs are federally registered and rigorously structured. Each combines hands-on job site experience with comprehensive classroom learning, empowering participants to launch lasting careers with dignity, security, and skill.

Carpentry Apprenticeship Program

Craft the framework of homes and your future

Our Carpentry Apprenticeship spans 8,000 hours of on-the-job learning and 787.5 hours of classroom-based technical instruction. You will learn everything from framing to finish work, site layout to stair systems, all while earning progressively increasing wages starting at $27 per hour and reaching $54 per hour upon program completion.

Core Curriculum Includes:

• Hand and power tool safety
• Blueprint reading and material estimation
• Residential and commercial framing techniques
• Roofing, drywall, stair, and cabinetry installation
• Welding, rigging, and formwork systems
• OSHA safety and anti-harassment training

Program Highlights:

• 4-year term
• One-on-one supervision by certified journeyworkers
• Equal opportunity recruitment and selection
• Real-world work aligned with employer standards

Download the Full Curriculum (PDF)
For complete details on competencies, training hours, wage progression, and instruction content, download the official U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Standards for Carpentry.

Painting Apprenticeship Program

Transform surfaces. Uplift spaces. Own your craft

In this 6,000-hour apprenticeship with 452.5 hours of technical instruction, you will learn the art and science of professional painting, from surface preparation to spraying and specialty finishes. Apprentices start at $26 per hour, rising to $52 per hour upon successful completion.

Work Process Areas Include:

• Masking, drywall prep, and finish work
• Interior and exterior painting methods
• Pressure washing and spray equipment handling
• Faux finishes and wallcoverings
• Job estimation and leadership development

Classroom Instruction Covers:

• Paint chemistry, failures, and remedies
• Low-pressure systems and abrasive blasting
• Faux finish techniques and colour theory
• Leadership, anti-harassment, and OSHA compliance

Download the Full Curriculum (PDF)
View the comprehensive Painting Apprenticeship outline, including job site training expectations, OSHA safety guidelines, and classroom instruction requirements.

Roofing Apprenticeship Program

Secure homes from above and your own future beneath

The Roofing Program features 4,000 on-the-job hours and 323 hours of classroom learning. This time-based path equips apprentices with in-demand skills for residential and commercial roofing systems. Wages start at $24 per hour and increase to $48 per hour upon completion.

Training Focus Includes:

• PPE selection and ladder safety
• Deck inspections and insulation layout
• Asphalt, clay, tile, EPDM, and metal roofing systems
• Rigging, tool safety, and hoisting equipment
• Leak detection, troubleshooting, and repairs

Instruction Topics Include:

• Steep and low-slope roofing systems
• Thermoplastic and built-up roof applications
• Jobsite safety, material handling, and rigging
• Equal opportunity and anti-harassment compliance

Download the Full Curriculum (PDF)
For detailed standards covering roofing tools, systems, repair protocols, and technical instruction, access the full Registered Apprenticeship document.