Construction Trades Programs in Nevada

Finding Construction Trades Schools in Nevada

If you’re thinking about a career in the construction trades in Nevada, you’re in the right place. This guide will help you understand the process of finding local construction trades schools and what you need to know to get started in the industry. Whether you’re interested in becoming a general contractor, electrician, carpenter, or another skilled tradesperson, there are several paths to get the training and certification you need.

Construction trades involve skilled labor in areas like building, electrical work, plumbing, and more. These jobs are essential to the infrastructure and development of cities and towns across Nevada. To get started in this field, you’ll likely need to attend a construction trades school, complete an apprenticeship, or both.

Why Pursue Construction Trades in Nevada

Nevada is one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., and with that growth comes a high demand for skilled tradespeople. Cities like Las Vegas and Reno are booming, and new construction projects are constantly underway. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities in construction trades are expected to grow by 4% nationally from 2022 to 2032. The average salary for construction workers in Nevada is around $50,000 per year, with opportunities to earn more as you gain experience and certifications.

Nevada is a great place to start a career in construction. The state offers a variety of training programs, and the Nevada State Contractors Board ensures that all contractors are properly licensed and insured. With the right training and certification, you can find stable and well-paying work in Nevada’s growing construction industry.

Prerequisites for Construction Trades Programs

Before you can enroll in a construction trades program or apprenticeship in Nevada, there are some prerequisites you need to meet. These requirements can vary depending on the specific program or trade you’re interested in, but here are some general guidelines:

Minimum Age: You must be at least 16 years old to participate in an apprenticeship program in Nevada.
Physical Requirements: You must be physically capable of performing the tasks required in your chosen trade.
Education: Some programs may require a high school diploma or GED, while others do not have formal educational prerequisites.
Exams: For certain trades, you may be required to pass an entrance exam.
Background Checks: Some programs may require a background check, especially for trades that involve working in sensitive areas like schools or hospitals.
Documentation: Be prepared to provide proof of identity, such as a Social Security number and a valid driver’s license.
Drug Screenings: Many programs require participants to pass a drug screening before they can begin training.

Typical Program Curriculum

Construction trades programs in Nevada offer a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. The curriculum will vary depending on the specific trade you’re pursuing, but most programs include the following components:

Classroom Instruction: You’ll learn the theory behind your trade, including safety protocols, building codes, and construction techniques. The number of classroom hours required can vary, but most programs require at least 144 hours of instruction per year.
On-the-Job Training: In addition to classroom learning, you’ll gain practical experience through on-the-job training, often as part of an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships typically require 2,000 hours of on-the-job training per year.
Specializations: Depending on the trade you choose, you may have the option to specialize in areas like electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC systems.
Duration: Most apprenticeship programs in Nevada last around four years, though this can vary depending on the trade and program.

Construction Trades Schools in Nevada

Here are some of the top construction trades schools in Nevada that offer comprehensive programs to help you get started in the industry:

College of Southern Nevada (CSN)
- Location: 6375 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89146
- Program: Offers a variety of construction-related programs, including carpentry, electrical systems, and HVAC.
- Program Cost: Tuition varies by program, but most range from $2,000 to $4,000 per year.
- Website: CSN Construction Programs
Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC)
- Location: 7000 Dandini Blvd., Reno, NV 89512
- Program: TMCC offers training in several construction trades, including welding, electrical, and plumbing.
- Program Cost: Estimated tuition is around $3,000 per year.
- Website: TMCC Construction Programs
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Nevada
- Location: 240 S. Rock Blvd., Suite 121, Reno, NV 89502
- Program: ABC Nevada offers apprenticeship programs in various trades, including carpentry, electrical, and plumbing.
- Program Cost: Costs vary depending on the specific program.
- Website: ABC Nevada Workforce Development

Each of these schools offers unique benefits and is located in cities with growing construction industries, making them great places to start your career.

Construction Employment Opportunities in Nevada

Nevada is home to several major construction companies that offer employment opportunities for skilled tradespeople. Here are a few of the top employers in the state:

Martin-Harris Construction
- Location: Las Vegas, NV
- Specialty: General contracting and construction management.
- Website: Martin-Harris Careers
The PENTA Building Group
- Location: Las Vegas, NV
- Specialty: Commercial construction, including hotels, casinos, and healthcare facilities.
- Website: PENTA Building Group Careers
Q&D Construction
- Location: Sparks, NV
- Specialty: Heavy civil construction and general contracting.
- Website: Q&D Construction Careers

These companies are leaders in Nevada’s construction industry and offer a range of opportunities for both entry-level and experienced workers.

Certification and Licensing Requirements

In Nevada, contractors must be licensed by the Nevada State Contractors Board. Here’s what you need to know about certification and licensing:

License Types: General Building Contractor (B), Residential and Small Commercial Contractor (B-2), and Specialized Contractors (C-1 to C-62).
Experience Requirements: You must have at least four years of experience in your trade, verified by the Nevada State Contractors Board.
Exams: You’ll need to pass a written exam for your specific trade. The NASCLA Commercial General Building Contractor Examination is accepted for general contractors.
Bonding Requirements: A surety bond ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 is required, depending on the license classification.
Insurance: You must have workers’ compensation and liability insurance.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years, and some trades, like electrical contractors, require 1.5 units of continuing education every three years.

For more information on licensing, visit the Nevada State Contractors Board.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of construction trades programs in Nevada can vary widely depending on the school and the specific trade. On average, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000 per year for tuition. Additional costs may include exam fees, license fees, and insurance costs.

License Fees: Vary by classification.
Exam Fees: Typically range from $100 to $200.
Insurance: Contractors must carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance, with costs varying based on the size of the business.

Financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, may be available through the schools listed above or through trade organizations like ABC Nevada.

Apprenticeship Opportunities

Apprenticeships are a great way to gain hands-on experience while earning a wage. In Nevada, apprenticeship programs must be approved by the Nevada State Apprenticeship Council. Here are the key details:

Minimum Age: 16 years old.
Program Length: Typically four years, with 2,000 hours of on-the-job training per year.
Certification: You must pass a certification exam at the end of your apprenticeship.
Union Apprenticeships: The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 357 offers apprenticeships for electrical workers in Southern Nevada. Contact them at (702) 648-6222 for more information.

For more information on apprenticeships, visit the Nevada Department of Labor.

Get Started Today

Now that you know what it takes to start a career in construction trades in Nevada, it’s time to take the next step. Contact one of the schools listed above or reach out to a local apprenticeship program to begin your journey. With Nevada’s growing construction industry, there’s no better time to start building your future in construction trades.