From beginner to builder: gain hands-on trade skills and a portfolio to prove it.

Pathway to Trades is for anyone curious about woodworking or metalworking who wants to dive in but does not know where to start. You do not need any prior experience. This program is designed to take you from zero to confident by putting tools directly in your hands. Along the way, you will build a starter portfolio of projects that not only showcase your skills, but can also give you a head start if you are considering a career in the trades.

Instead of sitting through lectures or poring over books, you will learn by doing. Alongside a small group of peers, you will work through projects that build real skills step by step. You will also gain the kind of shop familiarity and confidence that comes only from practice.

Upcoming cohorts

Three cohorts have run since 2024. The next cohort is on hold while we secure funding to keep it accessible. When applications reopen, the cohort is listed here with its start date. Follow this program at the bottom of the page and we will email you the day that happens. Organizations that would like to bring Pathway to Trades to their own participants can write to education@makehaven.org.

Who it is for

This program is for people interested in a trade career but not sure where to begin. It is for beginners who want to learn by doing rather than by reading. It is also for anyone looking for a welcoming and hands-on introduction to making things.

What you will gain

You will leave the program with practical, hands-on skills that you can use right away in woodworking or metalworking. You will become part of a supportive community of fellow learners and have guidance from instructors with professional experience. You will build confidence in the shop, no longer wondering if you are ready to start, because you will be doing it from day one. You will also finish with a starter portfolio of projects that you can show to employers, schools, or training programs if you are exploring a new career path.

How it runs

The program runs for 12 weeks, balancing instructor-led sessions with independent project time. Regular weekly sessions keep you on track, with space built in if you need to miss a class; instructors will help you catch up so you do not fall behind. Participants work through hands-on projects, such as furniture assembly or metalwork, while earning key badges that demonstrate their skills and unlock independent access to MakeHaven's tools.

The syllabus and schedule below are sample versions to give you an idea of what to expect. Finalized versions are provided at the start of each cohort.

Sample metalshop syllabus   ·   Sample woodworking schedule

Time and cost

The most recent cohort was priced at $1,375 tuition, which covers all shared materials and tools. For your personal projects you can often find free scrap materials, or choose to invest in fancier supplies. A sliding scale option is available for those who need it, so cost does not have to be a barrier. Tuition does not include MakeHaven membership, which participants need for the length of the program. Pricing is confirmed with each cohort when it is announced.

Frequently asked questions

Who can join? Anyone interested in building practical skills in the trades. Beginners and experienced learners are welcome; no prior experience with tools or fabrication is required.

How much does it cost? The last cohort was $1,375, with a sliding scale for those in different situations. This does not include membership.

What if I miss a class? Life happens. There is flexibility built in, and instructors will work with you to catch up. Please let us know ahead of time if you need to miss a session.

Are materials included? Yes. Tuition covers all shared materials and tools. You may choose to buy special supplies for personal projects, but it is not required.

Can I join if I'm not a MakeHaven member? You will need to join MakeHaven as a member for the length of the program to have full access to tools and resources.

What are badges? Badges are micro-credentials that demonstrate proficiency with specific tools and techniques. They allow independent access to tools at MakeHaven.

How do I apply? Applications open with each cohort. Follow this program below and we will email you the day the next one opens — you do not need a MakeHaven account to do that.