Instructor, Trades

Revolution Workshop is a social enterprise that provides construction and woodworking workforce development for unemployed or underemployed people in partnership with area businesses.

We deliver financial independence and careers through skills, hope, and resilience.

• This position reports directly to the Program Manager

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, 7:00 am‑4:00 pm. Thursday, 7:00 am‑1:30 pm. Occasional evening and/or weekend events required and will flex hours accordingly.

Revolution Workshop is looking for an experienced tradesperson that is passionate about growing the future of construction in Chicago. This individual will be responsible for training trainees in the basics of construction during our 12‑week long pre‑apprenticeship training program. This position is full‑time and year‑round at our Chicago, IL training facility. RW instructors must invest in the technical knowledge of our participants but also develop the growth of “soft skills” needed to be successful in the field.

The training at Revolution Workshop is completed through a trauma‑informed lens and provides coaching to help the trainees successfully complete the program and be placed into long‑term employment. Instructors always manage a crew of 25 or more trainees, so the ability to run a large crew is a must.

• Primary person responsible for implementing all technical aspects of Revolution Workshop’s Pre‑apprenticeship Construction Training Program
• Provide hands‑on experience and construction lab training for all modules of NCCER Core Certification
• Teach introductory construction topics such as reading a tape measure, identifying level / plumb, safely using power tools, proper use of personal protective equipment, etc.
• Lead trainees through a series of hands‑on projects, including: rough framing, cutting roof rafters, installing drywall, cutting stair stringers, basic electrical wiring, basic plumbing demonstrations, painting, etc.
• Simulate a job site environment in the shop, reinforcing punctuality, hustle, critical thinking, quality control, teamwork, and communication
• Assess and evaluate the technical and behavioral progress of each trainee in the program, holding trainees accountable to their goals and the expectations of the program
• Build authentic relationships with trainees through the sharing of lived experience and adoption of Revolution Workshop’s coaching approach.
• Participate in weekly meetings regarding all trainees.
• Maintain a safe and efficient shop environment.
• Assist in showcasing the 12‑week training program to non‑profit partners and employer partners to inform the community about RW's programming.
• Support job site tours with trainees to learn more about the industry.
• Lead offsite projects with trainees and alumni during work experience and social enterprise projects.

• Open the site location no later than 7:00 am on each day of training.
• Work with case management staff on identifying challenges and barriers to trainee success and help develop a plan with trainees to succeed.
• Occasional meetings and training at the East Garfield Park and Roseland RW locations.
• Collaborate with other instructors to ensure quality of training across all RW training sites.
• Assist in execution of facilities management as needed.

• Maintain and organize all shop tools and equipment, maintain accurate inventory
• Proactively submit orders for all supplies and tools for trainees.
• Other tasks as assigned.

• Accountability:
  We believe actions matter. We hold our trainees, graduates, employer partners, and each other to the highest standards of excellence.
• Compassion:
  We value lived experiences. We give each person we work with the individual support they need to succeed — whether that’s equipping them for their journey or simply offering an opportunity.
• Social Justice:
  We amplify the voices of those we serve to dismantle the systems that economically oppress black, brown, and underserved communities.
• Integrity:
  We strive to do right by those we serve with an eye towards honesty, inclusion, and equity.
• Community:
  We value everyone who…