How to Apply to the Sankofa Apprenticeship Program

If you want to start a career in the trades, you can walk into our office in Plainfield and begin an application the same day. This page explains the process from your side: what to bring, what we will ask you, and what happens after you apply.

The eight steps

1. Check-in. Tell us why you are here, and we point you to the right next step.

2. Pre-screening. A short review against the requirements for the program you are interested in.

3. Application. You complete the Sankofa Apprenticeship Program application.

4. Documents. You provide the items that apply to your pathway.

5. Review. We check your application for completeness and tell you what is missing.

6. Orientation. What the program expects of you, before anyone is enrolled.

7. Assessment. An interview or skills review, depending on the pathway.

8. Decision. A written answer and a clear next step.

What to bring

Requirements vary by program and funding source, and staff will confirm what applies to you. Do not let a missing document stop you from starting. You can begin the application while items are still outstanding, and we will write down what is needed.

• Government-issued photo identification

• Social Security card or acceptable work authorization documents, if required

• Proof of address or residency, if required

• High school diploma, GED, or transcript, if required

• A resume, if you have one

• A driver license, trade certifications, or other credentials, when relevant

• Income, unemployment, or public assistance documentation, if the program requires it

• Veteran or Selective Service documentation, if applicable

What we will ask you about

• Your contact details and an emergency contact

• Your education so far, including any vocational or technical training

• Your work history and any construction experience

• Which trade you are interested in and where you want your career to go

• Your availability, transportation, and preferred work location

If something is standing in your way

We ask about barriers because part of our job is connecting people to help, not screening them out for needing it. Tell us if any of these are an issue and we will look at what support or referrals are available.

• Transportation

• Childcare

• Work clothing and personal protective equipment

• Tools

• Housing resources

• Resume development and employment readiness

• Replacing lost identification or documents

• Computer and internet access

What happens after you apply

These are the timelines we aim for. We will tell you where your application stands rather than leave you guessing.

• Within 1 to 2 business days: we confirm we received your application and documents.

• Within 3 to 5 business days: we complete the first eligibility and document review.

• Within 5 to 10 business days: we tell you your next step.

Timing can run longer when we are waiting on funding verification, a cohort start date, employer demand, or a document from a third party.

Where your application can land

Not everyone moves straight into a cohort, and that is normal. You will receive a written status either way.

• Pending documents. We need something from you before we can review.

• Application complete. Everything currently required is in.

• Pending orientation, interview, or assessment.

• Eligible, waitlisted. You qualify, but the current cohort is full.

• Accepted and enrolled.

• Referred. Another program, employer, or partner is a better fit for you right now.

• Not eligible at this time, along with what would change that.

One honest note

Submitting an application does not guarantee admission, placement, employment, or a specific wage. Anyone who tells you otherwise is speaking out of turn. What we do commit to is that you will leave with your status written down, a next action, and a clear picture of what we need from you.

Start your application

Walk in at 935 South Second Street, Plainfield, NJ 07060. To ask a question before you come, email Sankofabuilders@sankofaconstruction.com.