One Collaboration.
Infinite Possibilities.

The RPAC was established in 2016 to build a coordinated, region-wide network preparing local, under-represented residents for successful construction careers.  We are a cohesive collaboration of contractors, apprenticeship coordinators, public agencies, educators, community organizations and pre-apprenticeship leaders who are actively invested in rigorous pre-apprenticeship training across the Puget Sound region to provide quality rookie apprentices for our industry.

Student carries lumber

About the RPAC

The RPAC - Regional Pre-Apprenticeship Collaboration was established in 2016 to build a coordinated, region-wide network to prepare local, under-represented residents for successful construction careers.

Person smooths cement in front of others

Meet Our Members

RPAC members are stakeholders deeply invested in promoting access and awareness to the trades for women and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color community members.

Our Priorities

Our four priorities of outreach, retention, training standards and policy work to provide under-represented job seekers the skills necessary to succeed in the industry and employers the tools to promote healthy and sustainable workplaces.

Workers in a construction site

Outreach

We build relationships with industry employers to promote values of diversity and equity in the workforce and work to engage community organizations working with women and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color to promote greater access and awareness for construction industry careers.

Group of people talk together in wood shop

Policy

The policy committee shapes policy changes benefiting Black, Indigenous, People of Color, women, and underserved community members in the Puget Sound region by advocating across the region and the state for policies that advance inclusivity within construction training programs.

Instructor shows apprentices how to use wood cutting machine

Training

The training standards committee works with training programs and employers to develop tailored curriculum that promotes equitable access to industry-standard training and a strong foundation for a successful career in the construction sector.

Group of diverse people listen to construction instructor

Retention

By working with employers and community resources, the retention committee identifies support programs and mentorship networks to provide apprentices with the resources necessary for sustainable employment within the construction workforce.

Praise for RPAC’s Model

  • "I appreciate how RPAC connects stakeholders from all over Puget Sound who are invested in the success of pre-apprentices and their programs - specifically through a racial equity and gender justice lens. As a Co-Chair of RPAC's Retention Committee, I've learned about the issues impacting pre-apprentices in and after their programs."

    Rachel Erstad (she/her), Research Director, Harry Bridges Center for Labor Studies at the University of Washington

  • "RPAC and pre-apprenticeship programs help lay the foundation for future careers, bridging gaps in education and skill with real-world experience."

    Tamaka Thornton, Community & Citizenship Director
    Turner Construction Company

  • "RPAC provides successful program completers a pathway into a registered apprenticeship in an occupation of their choice. Many of the program completers are now Journey workers earning a living wage and providing mentorship to those that follow."

    Elmer Arter, Apprenticeship Consultant
    Washington State Department of Labor and Industries

  • “RPAC MEMBERS HAVE SUPPORTED ME WITH EARNING STATE RECOGNITION FOR OUR PROGRAM, SUPPORTING OUR TEACHER WITH GAINING SKILLED TRADES TEACHING SUPPORT AND HAVE SUPPORTED OUR STUDENTS WITH EXPLORATION, PREPARATION, CERTIFICATIONS, INTERNSHIPS AND EMPLOYMENT.”

    Charissa Eggleston
    Federal Way Public Schools Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program

  • "Pre-apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for individuals to explore the diverse range of trade work in the construction industry. They provide a hands-on way to discover what you enjoy and what suits you best. By learning a trade skill, you not only gain valuable experience but also contribute to building America’s future!"

    Franklyn Smith, Director of Community & Housing Resources
    Freedom Project