Rock Valley College

Highway Construction/IDOT

  • group of HCCTP students in action
  • HCCTP Students On-Site 2020
  • two students using saw outside
  • Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) Image 1
  • two masked students wearing hard hats while measuring
  • HCCTP Students Drilling on site
  • HCCTP students pouring concrete
  • two students at shop table
  • two students working
  • person wear safety equipment digging outdoors
  • female student working in lab

Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP)

About the Program

The Highway Construction Careers Training Program aims to help women, underrepresented, and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals gain acceptance into the construction trades. During the 14 week class, participants will engage in 450 hours of skilled-trades preparation and apprenticeship readiness training with the goal of applying for and obtaining local union apprenticeship opportunities.

HCCTP is offered twice a year (Fall and Spring) and the admission process is competitive – not all who apply will be accepted. 

HCCTP is at no cost to the participant as it is funded entirely by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Requirements & Outcomes

  • HCCTP covers topics including: Math for the Trades, Life Skills, Job Readiness, Blueprint Reading, OSHA 10-hour, Welding, Equipment Operation, and Hands-On Projects
  • Qualified individuals must:
    • be interested in working in construction
    • be at least 18 years old
    • have a High School Diploma or GED
    • have a valid Driver's License
    • have reliable transportation
    • have reliable childcare
    • be drug-free (tested)
    • have at least a 7th-grade math level equivalency
  • Career opportunities include: Plumbers, Pipefitters, Carpenters, Laborers, Cement Masons, Electricians, Equipment Operators, Painters, Sheet Metal Workers, and more!

How to Get Started

Application Checklist

  1. Register for and attend an Information Session when registration is open                             
  2. Math and Reading Testing – Completed same day as session for those wanting to proceed
  3. Potential candidates are invited for an Interview
  4. Drug Testing

Register for an Information Session

FALL 2023 Registration for Information/Testing Sessions is OPEN. Reserve a seat below (form). Allow 2-3 hours if staying for same-day testing.

NOTE: An e-mail will NOT follow your submission. Contact will be made as the date reserved gets closer.