Students building wooden workbenches side by side at a hands-on trades event

Central Louisiana · 501(c)(3) Nonprofit

Building the future, one student at a time.

We connect Louisiana high school students to skilled trades careers through hands-on experiences, industry mentors, and scholarships.

Cenla Trades Day → Join the Chapter

Hands-on learningStudents pick up real tools and build real projects.

Industry mentorsLocal builders and tradespeople share how they got started.

ScholarshipsSponsor-funded awards for graduating seniors.

Student leadershipOfficers, service projects, and community events.

Who we are

A pipeline from the classroom to a skilled career.

The Student Chapter of Central Louisiana is a nonprofit that introduces high school students to the skilled trades and the home building industry. We partner with schools, local builders, unions, and community businesses to give students something they rarely get in a classroom: time with working professionals and a tool in their hands.

Louisiana needs carpenters, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and builders. We help students see that these are respected, well-paying careers they can start right after graduation, and we help them get there.

Our story & mission

Group of high school students smiling together outdoors during a chapter event

What we do

Programs that put students to work.

From job sites to jump seats on a parade float, every program is built to show students what a career in the trades can look like.

Student using a miter saw in a carpentry workshop

Hands-on building

Students build real projects with real tools under the guidance of experienced builders and instructors.

Learn more →

Students in high-visibility vests posing at a job site entrance

Career exposure

Job-site visits, industry talks, and career events connect students with the people who do the work.

Learn more →

Students in matching shirts in front of the chapter Mardi Gras float

Leadership & service

Student officers lead projects, represent the chapter in the community, and earn real responsibility.

Learn more →

Two students seated at a finished handmade wooden bench and table they built

Scholarships

Local sponsors fund awards that go directly to graduating seniors who meet our qualifications.

Learn more →

Students in hard hats working over blueprints at a trades event

Next event

Cenla Trades Day

A job-fair style career event where Central Louisiana high school students can meet local builders, unions, and employers and ask what it really takes to work in the building industry.