Strengthening Arkansas’s Workforce
Creating Pathways To Success
Ready to learn, earn, and grow in a career that matters? ACEF provides the training, guidance, and hands-on experience you need to succeed. Start building your skills today and take control of your future.
High-Demand Trades
What's an Apprenticeship
Get hands-on experience early and discover the trade that fits your future.
Continuing Education
Train with industry-recognized instructors and build real skills that employers trust.
A Career That Builds
Opportunity Starts Here
Construction is more than a job; it’s a pathway to real skills, a steady income, and a career you can be proud of. At ACEF, we help you turn hands-on training into lifelong opportunities.
High demand for skilled tradespeople
Earn while you learn (no student debt)
Job security and growth opportunities across Arkansas
Hands-on, rewarding work that makes a real impact
Training That Works
A Path For Everyone
Learning a trade starts with the right program. ACEF offers training that fits beginners, career changers, and those advancing in their trade. Each apprenticeship program blends hands-on labs, classroom instruction, and real-world application to prepare you for success.
Carpentry
Build structures from the ground up.
Electrical
Master circuits, safety, and industry standards.
Ironworking
Fabricate and assemble structural steel.
Plumbing
Solve problems in water and waste systems.
Concrete Finisher
Learn techniques for strong, lasting results.
Heavy Equipment
Learn to operate large machinery safely and efficiently.
Masonry
Laying bricks, blocks, and stone with precision.
Sprinkler Fitting
Work with fire protection systems.
Diesel Mechanics
Diagnose and repair heavy machinery.
HVAC
Install, repair, and maintain systems efficiently.
Millwright
Install and maintain industrial machinery.
Welding
Join metal components safely and effectively.
Continuing Education
Stay Current. Stay Certified.
ACEF’s continuing education keeps electricians up to date on the latest code cycles and license requirements. Classes are available in-person or online and include Spanish-language options for greater accessibility. Each course ensures you maintain your credentials while staying confident and compliant in the field.
Courses: Cover the latest NEC code updates and best practices in the trade.
Certifications: Maintain licenses that meet state and industry standards.
Trainings: Hands-on and virtual options designed for working professionals.
Pre-Apprenticeships vs Apprenticeships
Opportunity Starts Here
Students and career changers can take part in programs that give hands-on experience, mentorship, and a direct pathway to high-demand careers. Pre-apprenticeships introduce you to the trade, and apprenticeships help you grow into a skilled professional employers trust.
High School Pre-Apprenticeships
- Get real-world experience in the trades before graduation
- Earn school credit through hands-on learning
- Build foundational skills employers are looking for
Get a real feel for life in the trades and discover what career path excites you. Build practical skills, gain exposure to multiple construction fields, and start planning your future with confidence.
Apprenticeships
- Work full-time and earn while you learn
- Learn from experienced mentors in the field
- Receive nationally recognized certifications
Dive into hands-on learning while joining a community of skilled tradespeople. Develop professional habits, learn industry standards, and take meaningful steps toward a rewarding construction career.
Powered By Partnerships
Backed By Employers
At ACEF, we connect skilled students with contractors and industry leaders across Arkansas. Our partners trust us to deliver job-ready professionals who contribute safely and effectively from day one. Together, we build a stronger workforce and support long-term growth in the construction industry.
Impact in Action
Building Arkansas’s Workforce
Employer Partners Statewide
Skilled Workers Trained Across Arkansas
In-Demand Trades Offered
Building Tomorrow Together
A Campus For Growth
Arkansas Construction Education Foundation is creating the state’s first dedicated Construction Campus, set to open in 2026. This campus will give students more space to learn, hands-on labs to practice skills, and specialized facilities for Diesel and Heavy Equipment training. With approximately $8 million already raised, donors have the opportunity to help grow Arkansas’s workforce by supporting this one-of-a-kind learning environment and giving students the tools they need to succeed in high-demand trades.
Expanded Classroom Space: More room for comprehensive theoretical instruction.
Dedicated Hands-On Training Labs: State-of-the-art facilities for practical, real-world skill development.
Brand-New Diesel and Equipment Operator Training Center: Specialized training to meet critical industry needs.
million already secured in early commitments
Success Stories
Real People. Real Impact.
“Love going to school and seeing my classmates. And the teachers know their stuff”
“The class was very informative and the instructor was well versed on the class subjects. I would recommend anyone to go to the ACEF classes.”
“Excellent source for your training needs, many services provided, very knowledgeable staff.”
“Awesome place to learn a trade! Inexpensive and the people are super helpful.”
Careers
fIND THE RIGHT FIT
At ACEF, we connect students and tradespeople with employers across Arkansas who are looking for skilled, job-ready candidates. Whether you’re just starting out or have experience in the trades, our career resources help you find the right opportunities. From hands-on training to guidance on next steps, ACEF supports your career journey every step of the way. Explore positions that match your skills, interests, and ambitions, and take the next step toward a stable and rewarding future.
Stable, High-Demand Jobs
Build your career in trades that are essential to Arkansas’s growth.
Build Arkansas’s Infrastructure
Contribute to projects that shape communities across the state.
Opportunities for Growth
Develop new skills, advance in your trade, and increase earning potential.
Ready To Get Started?
Take The First Step
Your future in the skilled trades starts here. Gain hands-on experience, master in-demand skills, and build a career that makes a real impact.