NEL/CPS Construction Career

The **NEL/CPS Construction Career Academy** (often associated with the New England Laborers'/Cranston Public Schools Construction Career Academy) is a specialized vocational high school program located in Cranston, Rhode Island. It is designed to provide students with a rigorous academic education while simultaneously immersing them in the professional world of the construction industry. The curriculum is uniquely structured to bridge the gap between traditional classroom learning and hands-on trade skills, preparing graduates for both post-secondary education and immediate entry into the workforce.

The school is particularly notable for its partnership with the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA), which allows students to gain industry-recognized certifications and practical experience that are highly valued by employers. Students at the academy follow a curriculum that emphasizes technical training—such as carpentry, masonry, and infrastructure safety—alongside standard high school coursework. By blending core academics with professional trade development, the school provides a clear pathway for students to pursue successful careers in the skilled trades, construction management, or engineering.