EcoNest Apprenticeship Program

At its finest, building a handcrafted home is a soulful experience combining art, science and craft and involving mind, body and soul. The knowledge and skill to build in this way is not learned overnight. The EcoNest Company realizes the vital importance of passing this craft on to the next generation and offers an apprenticeship program to promising individuals who feel a calling to make fine ecological home building their life's work.

Qualification

The first step to becoming an apprentice is to sign up for one of the 4-day EcoNest workshops. Apprenticeship opportunities with the company are limited. Candidates for apprenticeship will be evaluated on the basis of their performance during the workshop. A resume and written essay explaining why you want to do this training will also be evaluated as a part of the selection process.

The Program

The apprenticeship program is offered in three-month modules.

Module I: In this module the apprentice will learn basic carpentry and safety skills necessary for the building of formwork and Larsen trusses and will do some basic timber framing and clay/straw construction while working along side experienced builders.

Module II: In the 2nd module the apprentice will continue to hone the skills learned in module I and will be given more challenging projects allowing them to broaden their experience. At this point the apprentice should be qualified to assist in the leadership of the workshop.

Module III: Here the apprentice will be coming up to speed and working in rhythm with the professional team. He or she will be given the opportunity to lead various portions of the clay/straw workshop. In addition the apprentice will be given the opportunity to design and build a small timber frame structure. The successful completion of this assignment will mark the completion of the training and graduates will have the skills to begin a career in the exciting world of natural building.

FAQ'S

Are there any opportunities for compensation in the apprenticeship program?

In module I you will pay tuition for your training. Those candidates who successfully move on to module II and III will receive a stipend in accordance with their skill level.

If I take a workshop do I automatically qualify to become an apprentice?

No. The workshop experience is an opportunity for you to evaluate us and for us to evaluate you. Because apprenticeship opportunities are limited we reserve the right to choose the most suitable candidates.

I have very little previous building experience. Can I still apply to become an apprentice?

All applicants will be evaluated in terms of previous experience, innate skill and desire to learn. It is possible to be accepted if you are both gifted and motivated even if you lack an extensive resume of previous building experience.

If I complete Level I training will I automatically be accepted into Level II?

Each apprentice will receive a full evaluation at the end of each level of training. At that time the apprentice will have the opportunity to move forward if enough progress has been made, repeat the previous training before moving forward or leave the apprenticeship program.

Am I guaranteed a job with the EcoNest Company once I graduate?

Occasionally positions become available in the Company and those whom we have hand trained are preferred for those positions. Also we foresee a growing network of Certified EcoNest Affiliates who may welcome the skills you have learned during your apprenticeship. However, successful completion of the apprenticeship program is not guaranteed job placement. We do guarantee that you will come away with improved building skills.

Can I go directly from apprenticeship to becoming a Certified EcoNest Affiliate?

The Certified EcoNest Builder program is offered to professional builders. When you graduate from the apprenticeship program it will be necessary for you to do the required training to become a licensed building contractor in your area prior to pursuing EcoNest certification.

Registration

Contact us to register.

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