International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC)

The Michigan Trowel Trades Apprenticeship and Training Fund and the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers (BAC) have a long history of preparing highly skilled tradespeople through rigorous registered apprenticeship training grounded in craftsmanship, safety, and hands on experience. Apprentices develop expertise across the trowel trades, including brick and block laying, restoration, tile, terrazzo, stone, plaster, cement, refractory, and related specialties through a combination of supervised on the job learning and classroom instruction led by experienced industry professionals.

Through a partnership involving the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), the Michigan Community College Association (MCCA), the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential (MiLEAP), and labor leaders, apprenticeship learning completed through BAC and the Michigan Trowel Trades Apprenticeship and Training Fund is being connected to associate degree opportunities at Michigan community colleges. This statewide effort works to evaluate and recognize the technical knowledge and skills gained through apprenticeship training, helping apprentices and journeyworkers apply their experience as college credit embedded within clear degree pathways.

Earning an associate degree can help BAC members strengthen leadership, communication, and technical skills while creating opportunities for career advancement within the construction industry and related management, supervision, and instructional roles. Use the search tools on this page to explore how BAC apprenticeship training may transfer to Michigan community colleges and learn more about pathways that can help you build on your training, earn a degree, and advance your career.