This manual is the curriculum guide used by Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) to run its 10-week pre-apprenticeship training program that is designed to help women who are interested in the skilled trades prepare for the mental, physical, and psychological demands of this work. Information on the training sequence includes material on recruitment and interviews, orientation for program participants, course content, and course schedule. Information is also provided on the support group component, which includes exercises on such subjects as networking, self-esteem, goal-setting, job search, map reading, legal rights, and a survival skills notebook. The manual describes lessons on the following topics: mathematics, measurement and geometry, algebra and utilization of formulas, blueprint reading, techniques of interviewing and job search, physical conditioning and nutrition, and mechanical- and trade-specific information and skills. The counseling component of the program and future plans are also described. Contents of the appendices are as follows: list of organizations that provide training, support, and advocacy for women in nontraditional jobs; a copy of a brochure available from CWIT; the CWIT Pre-apprenticeship Tutorial Workshop Application; and a copy of a 1991 orientation schedule. A bibliography lists 18 books, 3 films, 2 periodicals, and 8 videotapes and slideshows. (CML)