100 Hard Hats

Established in 2003, Summit Academy's 100 Hard Hats program is a community-based, skills-focused training effort that combines community service, vocational training and employer services. Our program produces graduates ready to enter apprenticeships in the skilled trades.

Accredited by the North Central Training Commission and licensed with Minnesota Higher Education offices, Summit's 20 week programs integrate theory, hands-on learning, and soft skills. All of our carpentry instructors are journeyman-level carpenters, with more than 70 years of combined experience in the field. Students are upheld to stringent attendance, skills, and behavior expectations. Training program paths include:

During the first ten weeks, all students receive industry training in the areas of construction safety, hand and power tools, blueprint reading, carpentry math and building materials. The second ten weeks of specialized training take place as listed below.

Summit Academy OIC Dunwoody Institute MCTC
Carpentry
Cement Mason
Heavy Equipment Operator
Residential Plumbing
Residential Electrician
Sheet Metal Worker
Weatherization Technician
Welding

Student Demographics

Summit is a resource for employers looking for trained and pre-screen applicants, including women and people of color to help meet minority goals. Current student demographics are ever-changing, but typical statistics are: 72% African-American, 7% women, 1% Hispanic, 3% Asian or Pacific Islander, 7% Native American, 7% Caucasian, and 10% other/unknown.

Labor & Hiring Partners

Mortenson Construction, Stock Roofing, Thor Construction, and Veit Companies are a few of our hiring partners. Our partners receive applicants who are ranked, drug-screened, have valid drivers licenses, and are reliable. Placed graduates have achieved an 80% job retention. Current labor partners include International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 292, Laborers Local 563, and Carpenters and Joiners Local Union 1644.

Projects

Summit graduates have earned work on some of Minneapolis's highest profile projects including the Twins Ball Park (31 graduates), TCF Stadium (9 graduates) and the Target Green Roof (18 graduates).