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.
Cohort 3: Metalworking is scheduled to start November 2, 2025.
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.
Time and Cost
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.
Tuition is $1,375, which covers all shared materials and tools. For your personal projects, you can often find free scrap materials, or you can choose to invest in fancier supplies if you would like. A sliding scale option is available for those who need it, so cost does not have to be a barrier.
The Pathway to Trades program runs for 12 weeks, balancing instructor-led sessions with independent project time. Participants will engage in hands-on projects—such as furniture assembly or metalwork—while earning key badges to demonstrate their skills.
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.
Download the sample syllabus and schedule below for an overview of the program.
Applications Now Open
Take the first step toward a career in the trades. Click below to access the application form and begin your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the Pathway to Trades program? This program is open to individuals interested in building practical skills in the trades. Beginners and experienced learners are welcome.
How much does the program cost? The program cost is $1375. We also have a sliding scale pricing structure for those in different situations. This cost does not include membership.
Do I need prior experience?
No. This program is built for beginners. You will be guided step by step and supported the whole way.
What if I miss a class?
Life happens. There is flexibility built in, and instructors will work with you to catch up so you do not fall behind.
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.
Is there financial help available?
Yes. We offer a sliding scale option to make sure cost is not a barrier.
Do I need prior experience with tools or fabrication? No prior experience is required. This program is designed for beginners and will teach the basics of woodworking and metalworking.
What happens if I miss a session? Please let us know ahead of time if you need to miss a session. We will do our best to help you catch up.
Can I join if I’m not a MakeHaven member? You will need to join MakeHaven as a member to participate in this program and gain 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.