Summit Academy OIC
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Minnesota / Summit Academy OIC
Summit Academy OIC – Minneapolis, MN
Program Information
Summit Academy OIC is a well-established nonprofit technical training institution in Minneapolis that focuses on providing practical, career-ready education for students entering high-demand skilled trades. With decades of experience serving the Twin Cities region, Summit Academy emphasizes hands-on learning, job placement assistance, and workforce-aligned training designed to help graduates transition directly into meaningful employment. The school is known for its 20-week accelerated training model, which enables students to quickly gain essential skills without compromising instructional quality. Summit Academy partners with dozens of regional employers, ensuring that its programs reflect current industry standards and hiring needs.
The Construction program is one of Summit Academy’s most recognized offerings. Students receive comprehensive training in construction fundamentals, including framing, roofing, interior and exterior finishing, blueprint reading, material handling, power tool operation, and workplace safety. Labs simulate real job-site environments, allowing students to practice tasks such as wall assembly, drywall installation, flooring systems, door and window installation, and structural support work. The curriculum is designed to qualify graduates for entry-level positions in residential and commercial construction or prepare them to enter union apprenticeship programs with local trade unions.
Summit Academy’s Electrical program provides intensive hands-on instruction in basic wiring, conduit bending, circuitry, electrical safety, National Electrical Code standards, and the fundamentals of residential and light commercial electrical systems. Students learn how to install and troubleshoot electrical components, read technical diagrams, and work safely with energized systems. This program positions graduates for entry-level electrical helper or pre-apprenticeship roles and helps them build the skills needed to pursue additional licensing or formal apprenticeship pathways.
The Carpentry program emphasizes the foundational and intermediate skills needed to work on residential and commercial building projects. Students gain experience in framing, carpentry math, blueprint interpretation, tool usage, and construction sequencing. They work on simulated structures in lab environments, giving them direct exposure to real-world scenarios such as wall construction, stair systems, roof structures, and interior finishing. The curriculum prepares students for immediate employment or advancement into carpentry apprenticeships.
Summit Academy also offers a specialized HVAC and facilities maintenance training track focused on the installation, troubleshooting, and repair of heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. Students learn mechanical fundamentals, refrigerant principles, electrical controls, combustion systems, and ventilation design. Training includes hands-on practice with actual HVAC equipment, enabling graduates to qualify for assistant-level technician roles or maintenance positions in residential buildings, commercial facilities, and institutional settings.
Program Length
- Most programs are delivered in an accelerated 20-week format
- Programs combine classroom instruction with extensive lab and shop time
- Some tracks may include additional job-readiness or internship components
Hands-On Training
Students train in Summit Academy’s full-scale construction, carpentry, electrical, and HVAC labs, gaining experience in:
- Construction framing, finishing, and job-site procedures
- Electrical wiring, conduit bending, circuitry, and code compliance
- HVAC system components, installation, diagnostics, and repair
- Power tools, hand tools, safety equipment, and trade-specific instruments
- Blueprint reading, technical math, and measurement skills
- Workplace professionalism, communication, and job-site expectations
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent readiness)
- Completed admissions interview and orientation
- Ability to meet physical demands of hands-on trade work
- Commitment to full-time program participation
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for pre-apprenticeship pathways in construction, electrical, carpentry, and HVAC
- Connections to regional employers through Summit’s Employment Services team
- Opportunities to advance into union apprenticeship programs
- Career paths include construction laborer, carpenter helper, electrical helper, HVAC assistant, and facilities maintenance technician
Location
Summit Academy OIC
935 Olson Memorial Highway
Minneapolis, MN 55405
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Summit Academy Opportunities Industrialization Center (Minneapolis, MN) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Trade or Technical Training
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at Summit Academy Opportunities Industrialization Center. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.