Barcos Foundation | National Apprenticeship Week 2026
April 26 — May 2, 2026

AMERICA
AT WORK.

The Barcos Foundation is leading the charge in Detroit to redefine the skilled trades. Through Registered Apprenticeships, we bridge the gap between vocational expertise and STEM career pathways.

$300,000+
Lifetime Earnings Increase
44%
Employer Return on Investment
1 MILLION
Active Apprentice Goal

The Registered
Advantage

Registered Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where individuals obtain paid work experience with a mentor and portable, nationally recognized credentials.

Earn While You Learn

Family-sustaining wages from day one while you master your craft.

Structured Mentorship

Direct direction from industry masters in a real-world work setting.

"This proven strategy drives economic growth across all industries."

Official NAW 2026 Partner

TRADES
reimagined.

Elevating barbering and cosmetology into the elite sphere of healthcare and STEM.

Clinical-Grade Grooming

We integrate aseptic waterless techniques and hospital-grade disinfection protocols into the barbering experience, transforming the chair into a clinical-grade health sanctuary.

STEM Certification HSA Eligible

The Health Sanctuary

By utilizing the trust of a barber-apprentice relationship, we create portals for mental health pulse-checks and physical health screenings in underserved Detroit hubs.

Workforce Pipeline Community Hub

THE MENTOR'S
MANDATE.

Detroit entrepreneurs: Your expertise is a community asset. Transform your business into an Apprenticeship training site.

01

Site Walkthroughs

Open your doors for students to observe professional standards and spatial logistics.

02

Chair Sponsorship

Fund an apprentice's tool kit or licensing fees to remove the barriers to entry.

03

Skills Workshops

Lead training sessions at the WSU Fieldhouse focusing on Sanitation STEM.