Hands-on Master Builder Program in Buena Vista, VA teaching construction trades, leadership, and real-world building through immersive learning by doing.
What Is Our Apprenticeship Program?
Step beyond the classroom and gain hands on experience in the trades. RCI’s Apprenticeship Program is for young adults who want to build real skills, work with their hands, and learn alongside experienced craftspeople. This isn’t about watching—it’s about doing, problem-solving, and discovering what you’re capable of.
As an apprentice, you’ll spend your days building, learning safe work practices, and developing practical trade skills you can carry for a lifetime.
Whether you’re exploring the trades, looking for an alternative path, or craving meaningful work, this program offers a chance to help you find your direction.
A Day in the Life
You’ll start the day with a beautiful sunrise over the Blue Ridge Mountains, followed by a brief review of the day’s plan with our instructors. In the morning hours, you’ll get straight to work on a timber frame or building a dry stone wall.
Some afternoons include a classroom style instruction after lunch with fellow apprentices. These sessions introduce key construction concepts, from learning SketchUp to understanding core principles of architectural design.
The day wraps up around 4:30 p.m., with facilities open for personal projects and recreation. You’ll head to bed tired—but fulfilled—knowing you spent the day building something beautiful and gaining skills that will last a lifetime.
What We Look For in an Applicant
The ideal candidate shares our commitment to hard work, integrity, and craftsmanship. If you’re creative, disciplined, and driven by the satisfaction of building something meaningful with your own hands, we encourage you to apply.
Key Traits We Value:
- Passion for Craftsmanship: A deep respect for the beauty of talented craftsmanship and a drive to master timeless skills.
- Work Ethic: The discipline to push through and see projects to the end.
- Commitment to Growth: A willingness to learn, adapt, and improve in every aspect of life.
- Entrepreneurial Ambition: Leadership potential and the vision to create something lasting.
- Faith-Driven Character: Integrity, service, and excellence as guiding principles.
What You Get From This Program
Our program challenges the mind, feeds the soul and prepares the hands.
- A minimum of $5,000 and up to $10,000 within our 10 week program.
- A breathtaking and wholesome workplace environment.
- Access to tools for working on personal projects.
- Hands on experience in almost every aspect of constructing a timber frame home.
- Experience in basic heavy equipment operation.
Ready to Build Your Future?
Join a community of creators and craftsmen shaping the world. Whether you’re looking to master a trade, contribute to our mission, or support future artisans, there’s a place for you at Rockbridge Creative Institute.