Apprenticeship Program
Empowering Tomorrow’s Property Managers Today
The BOMA/Chicago Apprenticeship Program is the first federally registered apprenticeship program in the U.S. designed specifically for commercial property management. Created to address hiring challenges within the commercial office industry, this program builds a strong, diverse pipeline of talent ready to succeed in property management.
Through partnerships with City Colleges of Chicago and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, BOMA/Chicago connects property management teams with motivated, career-ready students. Participants benefit from ongoing mentorship, industry guidance, and financial assistance to offset employment and training costs—support that is critical during a time of industry change.
To prepare students for success, the program now includes a Pre-Apprentice stage — a 10–12 week, paid summer opportunity for City Colleges of Chicago students who have completed a two-month introductory course taught by BOMA/Chicago instructors. During the summer, pre-apprentices work full-time in downtown office buildings as Tenant Services Representatives, gaining hands-on experience and professional skills. Employers have the option to continue working with these students by advancing them into the full Apprenticeship Program the following year.
The two-year Apprenticeship Program builds on this foundation, allowing City Colleges students to gain extended, real-world experience in Chicago’s leading office buildings while completing their degree.
This is more than a traditional internship; it’s a talent pipeline strategy to cultivate professionals, reduce turnover, and build better teams.
Calling All Property Management Teams: Take the First Step
Build Your Future Team with a Summer Pre-Apprentice
Complete our Apprenticeship Program Interest Form to explore how your team can be part of this groundbreaking initiative in CRE workforce development. Connect with BOMA/Chicago to learn more and take advantage of this opportunity to shape the future of property management.
How It Works
- January: BOMA/Chicago instructors lead a two-month course introducing City Colleges students to commercial property management fundamentals.
- March: Course graduates apply for the pre-apprenticeship. City Colleges screens applicants, and participating buildings review applications, interview candidates, and extend offers.
- May: Pre-Apprentices begin working full-time in your building as Tenant Services Representatives. Wages are reimbursed by the BOMA/Chicago Foundation.
- September: Employers may choose to retain the student, enroll them in the full BOMA/Chicago Apprenticeship Program, or end participation — with no further obligation.
Why Hire a Pre-Apprentice?
Low Risk, High Reward
- No long-term commitment — summer-only employment
- Wages fully reimbursed by the BOMA/Chicago Foundation
- You control all hiring and separation decisions
Career-Ready Talent
- Students are trained by industry professionals before day one
- Graduates are ready to contribute full-time through the summer
Stronger, More Engaged Teams
- Reduce entry-level turnover
- Build a stronger, more diverse workforce
- Enhance your building’s civic engagement for TOBY and other certifications
Interested Students
If you are a student interested in applying to the program, please contact your City Colleges of Chicago counselor.