The Preservation Trades Center (PTC) at Eastern State Penitentiary is a hub for workforce development in the preservation trades. Through paid, on-the-job training, PTC crew members work alongside expert craft workers and prepare for a career in the trades while preserving Eastern State Penitentiary, a National Historic Landmark.
Through specialty trade academies, the PTC connects Philadelphia communities that are underrepresented in the skilled trades — including returning citizens, women, and people of color — to long-term careers in the construction industry.
The PTC currently offers two six-week programs, a Masonry Academy and a Carpentry Academy, both with direct connections to full-time employment and union apprenticeships. We are actively seeking to expand our offerings to include additional preservation trades and employer partners.
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The Carpentry Academy
Every year, ten crew members are selected for the Carpentry Academy. Applications for our 2023 Carpentry Academy (February 27 - April 7) are now closed. Check back soon for information about future cycles.
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The Masonry Academy
Every year, ten crew members are selected for the Masonry Academy. Applications for our 2023 Masonry Academy (May 8 - June 2) are now closed. Check back soon for information about future cycles.