New Jersey Institute of Technology, Hudson County Community College and the New Jersey Administrative District Council of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers announced on April 27 a new partnership to connect apprenticeship training with a four-year degree pathway.
The agreement is intended to provide craftworkers with an academic roadmap that links technical training from apprenticeships to associate and bachelor’s degrees. The organizations said this initiative aims to strengthen New Jersey’s infrastructure workforce by expanding educational access for skilled trades workers and supporting their professional advancement.
A Letter of Intent signed on April 23 outlines plans for an “Apprenticeship-to-Degree” pathway. Under this plan, apprentice members of the Bricklayers union could apply their technical training and earned credits from Hudson County Community College toward Bachelor of Science programs in Applied Engineering Technology or Construction Management at NJIT. The effort builds on work by HCCC and the International Union of Bricklayers to evaluate related technical instruction within the apprenticeship program for college credit, creating clearer progression from apprenticeship through higher education.
Teik Lim, president of NJIT, said: “This partnership represents NJIT’s unwavering commitment to recognizing experiential learning and creating accessible higher education pathways for working professionals.” Lim added: “By integrating the technical expertise of the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers with our advanced engineering technology curriculum, we are not just awarding degrees; we are empowering the workforce of tomorrow. We are proud to join Hudson County Community College and the Bricklayers Union in fulfilling a vision that bridges the gap between hands-on mastery and academic excellence.”
Christopher Reber, president of HCCC, described it as a “transformational opportunity for present and potential craftworkers to earn while they learn, enhance their skills and advance their careers.” John Capo, director of BAC ADCNJ, said: “The rigorous training our apprentices complete deserves recognition as true college-level learning. This partnership creates a clear pathway from apprenticeship to an associate degree and ultimately a bachelor’s degree, allowing our members to advance without stepping away from their careers.” Capo also said: “By combining hands-on experience with higher education, we are not only expanding opportunities for our craftworkers but also helping to build a stronger, more skilled workforce for New Jersey’s future.”
The signing ceremony took place at NJIT’s Eberhardt Hall—a historic brick building constructed in 1857—which served as an appropriate setting given its significance in construction history.
The New Jersey Business and Industry Association serves as the nation’s largest statewide employer association representing employers across various sectors according to its official website. It advances competitive excellence while delivering essential information and services according to its official website. Michele Siekerka is president and chief executive officer according to its official website. The association serves private-sector employers throughout New Jersey according to its official website, facilitates partnerships among businesses, government entities, and academic institutions according to its official website, offering advocacy along with practical information and cost-saving benefits to support business prosperity according to its official website.
