NEW! 2026–27 SCHOOL YEAR

Building for the Future

A PLTW Gateway Unit Focused on Skilled Trades (Grades 6–8)

Hands-on, applied learning centered around skilled trades gives students access to practical knowledge that can lead to fulfilling careers. And that’s exactly what Building for the Future from Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is designed to do.

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Middle School Skilled Trade Hero

Career-Connected Learning That Supports Middle School CTE

Create a class where students arrive curious and leave inspired. Building for the Future doesn’t just teach about the skilled trades in middle school, it lets students live them. From one lesson to the next, students sketch, plan, and build as they step into roles like carpenter, plumber, construction manager, and architect.

Designed for grades 6–8, this PLTW Gateway unit (36–45 hours) connects math, engineering, and problem solving through hands-on challenges. Students use the design process to plan structures, integrate sustainable building concepts, and troubleshoot like professionals. In this unit, students discover the power of creating something real—and the careers that build our communities.

Download Course Outline

Translate 2D floor plans into 3D models
Gain basic woodworking and sustainable design skills
Learn how building systems work together
Design and construct scaled building models

HVAC Technician and Architectural Designer careers

Why Bring Skilled Trades to Middle School?

Connect to state standards and course codes
Provide an early advantage in career readiness
Build transferable and technical skills through applied learning
Prepare students for high school STEM and CTE pathways
Empower educators with instructor-led training that builds confidence

Invest in Your Students with Building for the Future

Annual Participation Fee

$950

Professional Development

$1,200

(40 hours; fully virtual. Optional for Green Architecture-credentialed teachers. Contact us for more details.)

Equipment & Supplies

Costs will be available in January and are expected to be similar to other PLTW Gateway units.