About the Program
The LHTA provides training in traditional building skills with a focus on pre-1960 construction materials and methods.
LHTA is designed for individuals looking to pursue a full-time career in the trades with little to no prior experience. Graduates of the program receive a Pre-Apprentice Certificate in their chosen track that demonstrates career-readiness to prospective employers.
We prioritize removing barriers and expanding access for women and people of color who remain underrepresented in construction. Qualified participants also have access to wraparound support through partners Family Service and Restore Education. LHTA is an approved Ready to Work training program.
Wraparound Services
Wraparound services for the Pre-Apprentice Certificate Program include:
- Case Management
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A Family Service case manager will be assigned to you from enrollment through job placement.
- Financial Counseling
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Guidance for building budgets, improving credit, managing debt and planning for savings, homeownership and other long-term goals through the Family Service Financial Empowerment Center.
- Workforce Readiness
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Aptitude test preparation courses, resume writing, soft skills and job placement assistance through Restore Education.
Enrollment doesn't require you to take advantage of every offering, but all are available to you.
Program Tracks
Wood Window Restoration
This track teaches the skills and techniques needed to preserve, restore and maintain original wood windows in aging and historic buildings. It covers:
- assessment of window conditions
- sash and frame repair
- window operation
- reglazing and repainting
- weatherstripping
Emphasis is on retaining as much original material as possible, following preservation standards, using appropriate materials and methods, and balancing historic integrity with improved performance.
Participants in this track receive a one-week intensive introductory training to wood window repair but may spend their pre-apprenticeship expanding their training to preservation carpentry to develop a well-rounded, holistic foundation in building systems and components.
Preservation Carpentry
Preservation carpentry focuses on the repair, restoration and rehabilitation of pre-1960 buildings and their materials.
Participants in this track learn:
- how pre-1960 structures were built and adapted over time
- the common differences between historic and new construction methods
- historic material categories and qualities
- essential tools of the trade
Participants gain:
- direct experience repairing building systems and components
- exposure to project schedules and budgets
- an understanding of typical subcontractor roles for historic and older buildings
Deconstruction
Deconstruction is the systematic disassembly of a structure in the opposite order it was constructed in order to maximize the salvage and reuse of building materials. Often referred to as “unbuilding” or “reverse engineering,” deconstruction is a mechanical demolition alternative that helps reduce waste and improve local access to quality building materials.
Participants in this track gain direct experience:
- performing material condition assessments
- removing materials in a manner that allows for their reuse, including:
- lumber
- siding
- fixtures
- flooring
- windows
- doors
- organizing a deconstruction site
- inventorying, documenting and transporting materials for their next use
Many of the skills, tools and methods used in deconstruction are transferable to general carpentry.
In September 2022, the City of San Antonio adopted a deconstruction ordinance that requires older housing stock to be deconstructed, resulting in a high and consistent demand for this trade as a service. Learn more about Deconstruction Requirements.
Pre-Apprentice Certificate Program Modules
If enrolled through Family Service, the program includes four modules. The total duration of the full program is approximately 10 to 12 weeks.
- Introductory Field Training
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Module 1: A one-week, hands-on introductory field training focused on the student’s chosen trade.
Held at active project sites throughout the city, typically inside Loop 410.
- Classroom Training
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Module 2: A one-week classroom module covering construction math and business fundamentals led by Restore Education.
Module 3: A 10-hour Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety certification course. A certificate is issued by OSHA after this module.
Both modules are held at Family Service and Restore Education offices.
- Pre-Apprenticeship
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Module 4: An eight- to 10-week pre-apprenticeship, providing on-the-job training under the guidance of an experienced contractor.
Held at active project sites throughout the city, typically inside Loop 410.
Calendar of Courses
View our schedule of courses:
Calendar
Dates are subject to change. A mandatory orientation and enrollment day is typically held two weeks ahead of a course start date. Additional courses may be added.
Application & Enrollment Process
Career Outlook
The career outlook for graduates is excellent. They join a community of craftspeople dedicated to preserving San Antonio's historic buildings and enter a job market with strong and growing demand, driven by housing needs, historic preservation and local policies.
These skills are highly practical and transferable, opening pathways to:
- stable employment
- entrepreneurship
- advancement into specialized or supervisory roles
Many of our graduates have gone on to work for established construction firms, while others have started their own small businesses. Several graduates are now LHTA instructors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility
- How do I know if I am eligible to participate at no cost to me?
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Family Service is our workforce partner and determines eligibility for enrollment in the full Pre-Apprentice Certificate Program. Learn how to become a student or call Family Service at 210-431-4425 to inquire about eligibility requirements.
- What if I am not eligible for the full program?
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If you've completed the application steps but are not eligible to enroll through Family Service, you may register for a one-week course for a fee (pending availability) to receive foundational instruction in one of our program tracks. Additional workforce training opportunities may also be available through Ready to Work and its partners.
NOTE: Due to current program capacity and funding, we are not able to accommodate all interested applicants. We hope to expand course availability as resources allow in the future.
Other Ways to Get Involved
- I am interested in becoming an instructor for the Academy, a host contractor or a preferred employer of Academy graduates. How can I learn more?
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Complete our contact form to express your interest.
- I am interested in taking an initial one-week course only, rather than participating in the full program. Is that option available?
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Yes, pending course capacity. Participants enrolled through Family Service receive priority. Courses have a registration fee of $800.
To be notified when one-week course spots open up, sign up for our newsletter.