North Kentucky News

The Covington Academy of Heritage Trades (CAHT) is offering spring seminars aimed at equipping individuals with skills for historic restoration. The academy, located in Covington, Kentucky, provides training that can lead to a career in the restoration of older homes and buildings.

Starting in March, CAHT will host three two-week seminars focusing on different aspects of heritage trades: Historic masonry and plastering from March 17-27, stained glass window repair from April 14-24, and historic carpentry from May 19-30. Classes will be held Monday through Thursday evenings at the Enzweiler Building Institute Covington Campus. Each seminar costs $400, with a $100 deposit required upon registration. Interested participants can apply online via the academy's website.

Brian Miller, executive vice president of the Building Industry Association of Northern Kentucky (BIANKY), highlighted the value of these seminars. “The Covington Academy of Heritage Trades’ spring seminars are an incredible opportunity for anyone looking to develop specialized skills in historic renovation,” he said.

Miller also emphasized the benefits past students have experienced: “Students who have participated in past seminars consistently praise the program for its hands-on training and the confidence it gives them to work on historic structures with precision and respect for their legacy.” He noted that professionals in this field earn approximately 9 percent more than those in broader construction roles.

The CAHT conducts practical learning activities at a historic building on Madison Avenue, where students learn alongside experienced craftspeople. Supported by the City and administered by BIANKY's Enzweiler Trade Building Institute, CAHT offers apprenticeship-style training. Enrollment is open for those interested in joining the first two-year certificate program starting this fall.

For further details about the spring seminars or fall semester enrollment, Diane McConnell, director of workforce development with BIANKY, can be contacted at (859) 640-4294 or diane@buildersnky.com.