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The Cherokee Nation Building Trades Program is a six-month, hands-on training program for individuals age 18 and older. Participants gain the skills and experience needed for apprenticeship and entry-level employment in construction and facility maintenance careers. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training and teaches participants how to compete effectively for employment. 

Participants earn industry-recognized credentials through the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), OSHA-10, and receive a Certificate of Completion from Cherokee Nation Career Services. 

Program Details 

Location: 

• Career Readiness Campus, Tahlequah, OK

Program Length:

• 1,040 hours 
• Six months (24 weeks)

Program Hours:

• Monday – Friday
• 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Program Benefits:
Program assistance includes free tuition, school supplies, and the required training equipment. 
Participants accepted into the program will receive Economic Assistance Payments (EAP) of $10 per hour, up to 40 hours per week. 
Participants who successfully complete the program and secure employment in the construction industry may keep the training gear provided during the program. 

Commitment Requirement 
Participants are expected to maintain a positive attitude and contribute to a safe learning environment for themselves and their classmates. Full participation is required Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Estimated Program Dates & Application Periods:

 Spring Cohort 2026 

• Application Dates: February – March 2026
• Application Deadline: March 15, 2026
• Interviews: March 16 – 20, 2026
• Program Dates: April 6 – September 30, 2026

Fall Cohort 2026–2027 

• Application Dates: August – September 2026
• Application Deadline: September 11, 2026
• Interviews: September 14 – 18, 2026
• Program Dates: October 5, 2026 – May 31, 2027

Eligibility Requirements 

Applicants must: 

• Be a Cherokee Nation citizen or a member of a federally recognized tribe 
• Reside within the Cherokee Nation Reservation 
• Possess a high school diploma or GED 
• Have a valid driver’s license 
• Have reliable transportation 
• Demonstrate the need for training 

Candidates who apply will complete an initial pre-screening to determine whether they meet the basic eligibility requirements. Eligible candidates will then be scheduled for an in-person interview.

Application Information 
To apply or request additional information, contact Cherokee Nation Career Services at (918) 453-5555.