About Us

Finding Inspiration in Every Turn

The Masonry and Construction Trades Academy is committed to empowering Native American communities through hands-on training in the skilled trades. Our mission is to build self-sufficiency, economic opportunity, and community resilience by providing culturally grounded education in masonry, carpentry, and construction. By combining traditional knowledge with modern techniques, we prepare the next generation of Native tradespeople to lead with skill, pride, and purpose.

Our Story

The Masonry and Construction Trades Academy aims to empower students by providing them with skills that they can carry throughout their lives. The academy's mission is to instill fundamental competencies in construction and masonry, ultimately opening doors to improved career opportunities within the building trades.

The envisioned main campus will be located in Rapid City, South Dakota, which will serve as the hub for advanced training, paving the way for full-time employment and job placements. In addition, there will be smaller satellite schools situated on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and in neighboring areas.

The academy's curriculum will encompass a range of advanced topics, including financial management, credit management, and cultural diversity.