Historic Structures and Trades

Historic Preservation Training Center (HPTC) completes technical preservation projects on historic structures within the NPS system. Interns with HPTC can expect to get hands-on experience and training in preservation trades and building crafts by industry leaders.
Training the Next Generation

These service opportunities operate as apprenticeships for the next generation of historic trades and preservation professionals. Historic structures in our national parks are constantly in need of thoughtful and careful preservation, repair, and maintenance.  By assisting and working alongside HPTC on these projects, participants directly improve the physical conditions of nationally significant park spaces that are accessed and enjoyed by thousands of visitors per year
Mentorship

While enrolled, participants are exposed to valuable experiences, methodologies, and mentorship by supervisory park staff, establishing a pipeline for young people to meaningfully engage with historic landscapes and begin a career in historic preservation and traditional trades
Hands-on Experience

Hands-on experience and training in preservation trades and building crafts

Open HPTC Positions

Service Opportunity	Park Unit	Location
Traditional Trades Advancement Program – Yosemite National Park – AmeriCorps	Yosemite National Park (U.S. National Park Service)	El Portal, CA
Traditional Trades Advancement Program – Haleakala National Park – AmeriCorps	Haleakalā National Park (U.S. National Park Service)	Kula, HI
Capacity Action Team National Capitol Region Facility Management and MAT Youth Program Assistant	Maintenance Action Teams - Infrastructure (U.S. National Park Service)	Washington, DC
Traditional Trades Advancement Program – Fort Scott National Historic Site – AmeriCorps	Fort Scott National Historic Site (U.S. National Park Service)	Fort Scott, KS
Traditional Trades Advancement Program – Natchez Trace Parkway – AmeriCorps	Natchez Trace Parkway (U.S. National Park Service)	Tupelo, MS
Traditional Trades Advancement Program – Andersonville National Historic Site – AmeriCorps	Andersonville National Historic Site (U.S. National Park Service)	Andersonville, GA
Traditional Trades Advancement Program – James A. Garfield National Historic Site – AmeriCorps	James A Garfield National Historic Site (U.S. National Park Service)	Mentor, Ohio
Ozark National Scenic Riverways - Water Lab & Utility Shop Service Member – AmeriCorps	Ozark National Scenic Riverways (U.S. National Park Service)	Van Buren, MO
Virgin Islands National Park- Water Lab & Utility Shop Service Member – AmeriCorps	Virgin Islands National Park (U.S. National Park Service)	St. John, VI

Yosemite National Park 2025 Ttap Simmons Harrison — HPTC is dedicated to training the next generation of federal employees and stresses preservation philosophy alongside specialized training in masonry, carpentry, and wood crafting.

In 2024, a total of 78 members participated in internships with the Historic Preservation Training Center based in national parks, monuments, and national historic sites across the country. The dedicated work of these members contributed to the restoration of at least 57 historic structures and the assessment of conditions on an additional 182. A wide range of member work also produced training videos documenting preservation techniques.

Just this past year, 19 participants secured immediate transitions from the end of their term into relevant roles with federal partners, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.

: Traditional Trades Advancement Program (TTAP) provides entry-level opportunities for young adults and veterans with no prior experience. Participants receive hands-on training in essential trade skills while helping address maintenance needs in national parks. This program builds the next generation of preservation workers focused on land and cultural resources, preparing them for careers in both the public and private sectors.
: Historic Stewards/Maintenance Action Teams immersive internships focus on preservation projects for individuals with prior experience or education in trades. Interns work with NPS staff in masonry, carpentry, or wood crafting, gaining advanced skills.
: Build Up Technical Internship Program offers technical internships in fields like engineering, architecture, and project management. Interns work on large-scale projects with NPS teams nationwide.
: Water Lab & Utility Shop Internship provides hands-on experience in water treatment and wastewater management. Participants perform system readings, run tests, and maintain water systems, learning skills essential to maintaining NPS facilities, including emergency repairs.