Construction Trades Programs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Finding Construction Trades Schools in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Are you interested in starting a rewarding career in the construction trades? Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offers numerous opportunities to gain the skills and certifications needed to succeed in this high-demand industry. Whether you’re drawn to carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, or another trade, this guide will walk you through the education and training options available locally. We’ll also cover the steps you need to take to earn certifications and licensure in Florida and provide insights into employment opportunities in Fort Lauderdale.

Construction trades encompass a wide range of skilled professions involved in building, repairing, and maintaining structures. Pursuing a career in construction often involves enrolling in specialized training programs or apprenticeships, obtaining certifications, and fulfilling state or local licensing requirements. Keep reading to learn how to kickstart your journey into the construction trades in Fort Lauderdale.

About Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, located in sunny South Florida, is a city renowned for its beautiful canals, beaches, and thriving business environment. Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is a hub for tourism, commerce, and construction projects. With a growing population and an ever-expanding infrastructure, the demand for skilled construction professionals continues to rise in this area. To learn more about Fort Lauderdale and its resources, visit the official city website.

Construction Trades Programs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Here are three local schools offering construction trades programs to help you build your career:

1. Atlantic Technical College and Technical High School
   Location: Coconut Creek (approximately 12 miles from Fort Lauderdale)
   Program Link
   Atlantic Technical College offers Construction Trades programs such as Building Construction Technology. This program provides hands-on training in various aspects of construction, including blueprint reading, framing, and carpentry. The school also provides career counseling services to help students transition into employment.

2. Broward College
   Location: Fort Lauderdale
   Program Link
   Broward College features programs in Construction Management Technology, equipping students with foundational knowledge in construction principles, project management, and safety standards. This program is ideal for individuals interested in advancing to supervisory roles in the construction industry.

3. McFatter Technical College
   Location: Davie (approximately 10 miles from Fort Lauderdale)
   Program Link
   McFatter Technical College offers Construction and Maintenance Technology training. Students learn essential trade skills through hands-on projects, preparing them for entry-level roles in the construction sector. Evening classes are available for working adults.

If travel is an option, additional programs can be found in nearby cities such as Miami and Palm Beach.

Construction Employment Opportunities in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale boasts a thriving construction industry with several reputable companies offering job opportunities for skilled workers. Below are some major employers in the area:

1. Moss Construction
   Location: Fort Lauderdale
   Official Website
   Moss Construction is a privately held construction company specializing in large-scale residential, commercial, and renewable energy projects. They frequently hire skilled tradespeople, including electricians, carpenters, and project supervisors.

2. Hypower, Inc.
   Location: Fort Lauderdale
   Official Website
   Hypower, Inc. is a top electrical and utility contractor in Florida, with a strong focus on renewable energy and infrastructure development. The company provides numerous opportunities for construction trades professionals.

3. Stiles Corporation
   Location: Fort Lauderdale
   Official Website
   Stiles is a full-service real estate development and construction firm. They focus on commercial projects and continuously seek skilled tradespeople to join their construction teams.

These companies represent just a fraction of the opportunities available in the Fort Lauderdale area for construction trades professionals.

Prerequisites for Construction Trades Programs

Before enrolling in a construction trades program, you’ll typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Age: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old.
• Education: A high school diploma or GED is often required.
• Entrance Exams or Assessments: Some schools may require basic math and literacy exams to ensure readiness.
• Physical Requirements: Construction work can be physically demanding, so programs may require participants to meet certain health and fitness standards.
• Background Checks: Depending on the program, students may need to pass a background check.

Specific requirements vary, so be sure to check with the school of your choice for detailed admissions information.

Certification and Licensure Requirements in Florida

In Florida, construction professionals must meet several state requirements for licensure:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Credit Score: Submit proof of a credit score of 660 or higher or purchase a surety bond if your credit score is lower.
• Fingerprinting: Complete electronic fingerprinting.
• Insurance: Provide liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
• Examination: Pass the Florida State Construction Examination.
• Experience: A certified license requires four years of experience or a combination of college and work experience.

Visit the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website for detailed information on obtaining a contractor’s license.

For Broward County and Fort Lauderdale-specific requirements, such as building permits and flood certifications, visit the Fort Lauderdale Building Permits page.

Licensure Reciprocity

Florida does not currently have licensure reciprocity agreements with other states for construction trades. If you are moving to Florida from another state, you will need to meet all the state’s certification and licensing requirements.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career in the construction trades is a smart choice in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where opportunities for skilled professionals are abundant. With the right education, training, and certifications, you could soon be on your way to a fulfilling and lucrative career. Take the first step today by contacting a local school to learn more about their construction trades programs and begin your journey toward building a brighter future.

For additional information on job outlook and opportunities in the construction trades, you can visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.