YouthBuild Lake County participants gathered in front of the YouthBuild van

YouthBuild Lake County · Our programs

Different starting points.
Brighter futures.

A diploma. A skilled trade. A career you can build on. Find your path with free training and people who believe in your next step.

YOUR NEXT CHAPTER

Find your
program.

A few quick questions. A clearer next step.

Tell us a little about where you are and where you want to go. We’ll help you explore a path that fits.

About a minute. No name or email needed.
Your answers stay in this browser tab.

There’s a path for you.

Explore the three programs below, or choose “Unsure” when you apply and our team will help you find your next step.

Apply Now
YouthBuild participants wearing hard hats and safety vests at a worksite
Learn it. Practice it. Build on it.Your next chapter
starts here.

01 / Education + career exploration

YouthBuild

Work toward your high school diploma while discovering what comes next. Combine academics, hands-on career training, and personal support to build a future that fits you.

9 months16–24 years oldLake County resident
  • Earn your diploma with Penn Foster and support from our education team.
  • Explore construction, healthcare, automotive, and other career pathways.
  • Build confidence through work experience, leadership, and community service.
Participants work together on a construction project
Learn it. Practice it. Build on it.Turn your ambition
into a skilled trade.

02 / A foundation in the trades

Pre-Apprenticeship

Interested in the trades? Start your foundation here.

10 weeks18+ years oldIllinois residentDiploma or GED required
  • Complete 280 hours of classroom and hands-on training.
  • Earn OSHA 10, NCCER Core, and CPR/First Aid credentials.
  • Receive a weekly stipend and help preparing for employment or apprenticeship.
An apprentice practices technical skills in a classroom workshop
Learn it. Practice it. Build on it.Earn while you learn.
Build a lasting career.

03 / Paid training + professional growth

Registered
Apprenticeship

Develop the skills to keep buildings and facilities running. Our Department of Labor registered apprenticeship combines paid on-the-job training, classroom learning, and mentorship.

18 months18+ years oldIllinois residentDiploma or GED required
  • Gain experience through employer work placements and industry mentorship.
  • Train in HVAC fundamentals, plumbing, safety, and facility maintenance.
  • Work toward credentials including OSHA 30 and Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician.

A connection that continues

Once YouthBuild.
Always YouthBuild.

Graduation is a milestone, not the end of your support. Stay connected for career guidance, education resources, and opportunities as your goals grow.

Let’s find your next step

You don’t have to
figure it out alone.

Not sure which program fits? Choose “Unsure” on the application and our team will help you explore your options.