Rowan and Finishing Trades Institute of DC 14 Chicago expand degree pathways for union apprentices

Rowan University and Finishing Trades Institute of DC 14 Chicago (FTICHI) formalized a new academic partnership May 18 during a ceremonial signing ceremony at FTICHI’s training center in Berkeley, Illinois. The agreement creates a new educational pathway for union apprentices to earn a college degree in construction management by recognizing apprenticeship training as college-level learning.

Members who complete FTICHI’s commercial painting, drywall finishing and industrial painting apprenticeships will earn credits toward Rowan’s nationally ranked construction management programs offered through the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. Designed around the realities of union members’ schedules, the program offers fully online classes for self-paced learning.

“Today’s workforce needs education models that are adaptable, career-focused and aligned with real industry demands,” said Mina Saleeb, director of construction and engineering management at Rowan. “By combining industry training with academic pathways, we’re creating stronger outcomes for employees and the communities they serve.”

Credits can be applied to the Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, Master of Engineering Management and construction management certificates in project management and leadership, providing FTICHI members with a flexible route to a degree without leaving the field.

“Agreements like this promote growth from within, cultivating the next leaders of our industry. When our apprentices, past and present, have an opportunity to reach their full potential, it is the priority of our institution to ensure they have all avenues available to them to maximize that – whether that be through certifications, skills training, or now, a path to a degree,” said Daniel Penski Jr., Director of Training and Apprenticeship for FTICHI.

Programs like this strengthen pathways from building trades to higher education while affirming the academic rigor of union training programs and strengthening career mobility across building trades.

This agreement underscores Rowan’s growing commitment to workforce-aligned education and meeting learners where they are.

For more information about the partnership program, visit the Rowan website.