Trade Pathways and Vocational Training Programs
Build a Strong Foundation for a Career in Skilled Trades
Trade certificates and industry-supported career pathways offered through GCU’s Center for Workforce Development provide a blend of academic coursework and applied experience. Our programs and pathways are built to equip you with relevant skills and focused knowledge for your chosen career field. With hands-on preparation, supportive resources and streamlined completion timelines, our trade programs can help you take the next step toward contributing to your field.
Types of Trade Certificates at GCU
Our undergraduate trade certificates combine classroom learning with applied experience to help you develop practical skills for skilled trades careers. These programs provide a foundation for fields such as CNC manufacturing and electrical work.
Explore Skilled Trade Pathways
Our skilled trade pathways provide structured, industry-supported opportunities to prepare you for careers in construction and advanced manufacturing. These efficient pathways combine academic coursework with practical experience, giving you the chance to build valuable skills, explore trade options and connect directly with potential employers.
Pre-Apprentice Construction General Pathway
The Pre-Apprentice Construction General Pathway, sponsored by McCarthy, is a two-semester pathway that can prepare you with the knowledge and experience to enter the construction and skilled trades fields. You will have the opportunity to complete six courses to earn a total of 24 credits, combining classroom learning with hands-on exposure to various trades before focusing on a specific area of interest.
Throughout the pathway, you can engage with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience. Students who meet certain requirements may also interview for full-time opportunities with McCarthy upon completion. All pathway participants can also take advantage of GCU campus amenities and the flexibility offered by afternoon classes.
Percentage of trade workers surveyed who would encourage their kids or family to pursue a skilled trade(See disclaimer 1)
Amount of time it takes to complete a trade certificate or industry pathway
Manufacturing Specialist Intensive (MSI) Pathway
The MSI Pathway, sponsored by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC) Arizona, is a one-semester, industry-funded pathway that can help prepare you for a career in advanced manufacturing and automation. Through a focused four-course curriculum, you will work to develop technical skills, solve practical challenges and gain valuable industry knowledge to pursue roles such as that of a manufacturing specialist.
The pathway also includes a hands-on shadowing experience at TSMC Arizona, offering firsthand exposure to manufacturing environments and professional mentorship. This experience offers an in-depth introduction to the company, career opportunities, required skills and exposure to the clean room environment, linking your education to practical job responsibilities in automation and manufacturing.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering a career in skilled trades, read through our frequently asked questions and answers to learn more about this path.
What is a trade certificate?
How is a trade certificate different from an associate degree?
Are apprenticeships necessary to earn a trade certificate?
Build Career-Ready Skills with Classroom Lessons and Practical Training
Our trade pathways and certificate programs combine classroom learning with hands-on experience to help prepare you for careers in skilled trades and technical fields. These programs teach practical, job-ready skills while providing you with the opportunity to train alongside industry professionals. You can earn credentials that can help you navigate the workforce with confidence.
Trade pathways and certificates can be completed in a shorter timeframe than traditional degree programs, allowing you to gain career-ready skills and enter the workforce in a timely manner.
Each program and pathway focuses on developing the technical and practical skills required by employers in each specific industry, helping you prepare for your chosen trade.
You’ll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge to practical exercises and on-site experiences to help you step into your career as a knowledgeable professional.
Start building your skills and prepare for your career with a trade certificate or pathway today.
- Kelly, J. (2024, Jan. 10). Why You Should Consider a Job in The Trades. Forbes. Retrieved October 2025.