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The Preservation Trades Center

The Preservation Trades Center (PTC) at Eastern State Penitentiary is a hub for workforce development in the preservation trades. Through paid, on-the-job training, PTC crew members will work alongside expert craft workers and prepare for a career in the trades while preserving Eastern State Penitentiary, a National Historic Landmark.

Through specialty trade academies, the PTC connects Philadelphia communities that are underrepresented in the skilled trades — including returning citizens, women, and people of color — to long-term careers in the construction industry.

The PTC currently offers a four-week Masonry Academy and a six-week Carpentry Academy, both with direct connections to full-time employment and union apprenticeships. More information about each academy can be found by following the links below. We are actively seeking to expand our offerings to include additional preservation trades and employer partners. 

For questions about the PTC, please contact Liz Trumbull, Director of Preservation, Facilities & Trade Programs at [email protected] or 215-236-5111 x239.


  • The Carpentry Academy

    Every year, ten crew members are selected for the Carpentry Academy. Applications for our 2023 Carpentry Academy (February 27 - April 7) are now closed. Check back soon for information about future cycles. 

    Learn more



  • The Masonry Academy

    Every year, ten crew members are selected for the Masonry Academy. Applications for our 2023 Masonry Academy (May 8 - June 2) are now closed. Check back soon for information about future cycles. 

    Learn more



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