Pre-Apprenticeship

High School Opportunities

Pre-apprenticeship

High School Opportunities

This is the only program in Wisconsin that prepares you for Operating Engineer apprenticeship while still in high school. These courses can be completed during a study hall or outside of school time.

Tuition free for Wisconsin families
Remain in your home high school
Taught by WI certified teachers
Earn Advanced Standing credit through Wisconsin Technical College System

There are 5 courses that are part of the Operating Engineer Construction Pathway. These courses are offered by Destinations Career Academy (DCA), Wisconsin’s first online Career & Technical Education (CTE) focused school.

Construction Explorations SEM 1 or SEM 2
Basic Maintenance of Mobile Equipment* SEM 1 or SEM 2
Basic Construction Equipment Fundamentals* SEM 1 or SEM 2
Basic Grade and Construction Math* SEM 1 or SEM 2
CDL Competency Course 2nd and 3rd Quarter only .25 credit (recommended senior year)

These courses can count towards some of the requirements students will need to take after high school to become an Operating Engineer apprentice. School districts are eligible for CTE Incentive Grants from DPI with successful completion of the three courses marked with an * above

Operating Engineers Local 139 Externship – April 28, 29 & 30, 2026