This Old House Ventures has opened applications for four coveted spots as apprentices on project houses this spring and summer.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

For any young person interested in learning about the construction trades, an apprenticeship with the team at “This Old House” is like getting singing lessons from Lady Gaga, or going to basketball camp with LeBron James.

This Old House Ventures’ Generation Next program has begun its open casting call for its next two project homes – one in Jamestown, R.I., this spring, and the other in the Greater Boston area this summer. Each project will offer two paid apprenticeships, with Jamestown operating from March 1 to May 24, and Greater Boston running from June 4 to Aug. 24.

Apprentices will work alongside the cast and crew of This Old House Television, as well as other construction workers, contractors and vendors, as they participate in the renovation of one of two scheduled Project Houses. The Project Houses will be filmed for the 2018-19 Season of “This Old House,” with the first premiering on PBS Television in October.

Applications for the four positions are open now. The deadline for the Jamestown apprenticeships is Friday, February 23, while applications for the Greater Boston apprenticeships are open until Friday, May 4.

The applications comprise written and video submissions. Basic information about the candidates will include his or her trade field of choice and any prior experience they might have in the trades. The video can be an example of the candidates working in their field – but it doesn’t have to be. The main purpose of the video is for the TOH team to get to know the candidates and why they’re interested in a career in the trades. Candidates will also submit a letter of recommendation from a trade-related source, like a manager, foreperson, teacher, etc., who can speak to his or her skill level and work ethic. At least one but up to three letters are permissible.

For more information, tips on submitting a video, guidelines and rules, and to start the process, click here.

These apprenticeships are part of TOH’s effort to close the skills gap by encouraging young people to master the vocational trades. On-the-job training with the pros – like those who have set the standard on TOH – puts candidates on the fast-track to a lucrative career in one of these in-demand professions.