What Is An Apprenticeship?
Union registered apprentices work toward a career in the trades with hands-on training, classroom education, and industry-recognized certification. Develop your skills and prepare for an exciting career in the trades as you work for a contractor and earn a wage throughout your apprenticeship.
The union construction industry invests in apprenticeship training which means you accumulate ZERO education-related debt throughout your apprenticeship. Whether you start your apprenticeship directly after high school or many years down the line, the construction and building trades offer a debt-free career path with great wages and benefits.
Paid To Learn.
Seriously.
Apprentices receive free classroom and on-the-job training from safe, experienced tradespeople. Depending on the trade you choose, an apprenticeship can span between three to five years.
Real-world,
Hands-on Experience.
New apprentices start by performing less complicated tasks while assisting on the job site and perform more technical aspects of the trade as they progress in their apprenticeship.
Average College Student
Average Union Apprentice
*Not all locations offer classroom compensation.
**Average salary range when taking all trades into consideration.
I just bought my first home and am looking to buy a motorcycle. Unlike my friends, I am not tied to any student loan debt. I go to work every day with a sense of pride, surrounded by my union brothers and sisters as we improve the great state of Wisconsin.
Basic Requirements
Do you have what it takes to succeed in the construction industry?
18+ with a Driver's License
Candidates for the apprenticeship program must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license.
H.S. Diploma or GED
Do you have what it takes? Candidates for the program must have a high school diploma or a GED transcript.
Ability to Pass a Drug Test
Before being accepted into the program, candidates will be asked to pass a drug screening test.
Good Grades
The best candidates are able to balance high-energy workloads and classes while maintaining good grades.
Passing Test Scores
Most trades have testing requirements as part of their application process that candidates for the program must meet to move forward in the process.
Communication
Are you an effective communicator? The best candidates have great communication skills, both written and verbal. They are active listeners and are open to feedback from others.
Respect for Safety
Safety is the construction industry’s number one priority. The best candidates lead by example, following safety precautions and guidelines to minimize injuries and maximize productivity.
Punctuality and Attendance
The best candidates value punctuality. Class attendance is mandatory and important for finishing the program. Be ready and willing to work every day by showing up on time.
Willing To Learn
The best candidates have an enthusiastic attitude towards the apprenticeship program and are willing to learn on the job site and in the classroom. Successful individuals can take direction from a variety of experienced tradespeople and ask questions when needed.
Positive Attitude
The best candidates have a positive attitude toward the program, the instructors and the contractors they work with. They are a strong team player by helping others to stay motivated and engaged in class and on the job.
Problem Solving
The best candidates possess strong decision-making abilities and come up with solutions to address needs on the job. Successful individuals will take initiative to stay busy and contribute to project goals.
Math Skills
The best candidates are good at math – specifically spatial relationships. Individuals will maintain a strong working knowledge of basic math skills to regularly apply Algebra, Geometry, and other concept areas.
Career Paths
Experience the advantage! Explore a career that offers limitless opportunities for long-term growth and success.
With schools, hospitals, luxury high-rises and more projects being built every day, construction is always in demand. According to the Job Center of Wisconsin, the demand for construction workers across all occupations is projected to grow by nearly 9% by 2026 outpacing the average total projected growth among all jobs in Wisconsin.
Career Benefits
A career in the skilled trades is challenging, exciting and rewarding! Your apprenticeship will teach you real-world skills in an industry that’s:
Learn from the pros — and get paid like one! Every career path within the building trades offers varying wage and benefits packages, but all average hourly wages far exceed the Wisconsin average.
Earn higher wages and receive better benefits with a stable career in the trades. Your employer-provided premium health insurance will keep you covered without making you feel strapped for cash. All benefits are above and beyond your hourly wage, so it won’t come out of your paycheck.
Innovation leads the way in the construction industry. We’re shaping our cities and driving growth, using the most advanced technology available to bring complex projects to life.
No two projects are ever alike, keeping the work exciting. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to grow and advance.
Actively build your community — literally! Vision and teamwork combine in the building trades to create a lasting legacy you can be proud to show your family and friends.
Become a craftsperson who can apply your skills on the job-site and at home. You will be able to use your trades knowledge to help others.
Not Afraid To Work? You Have The Advantage!
Make student loans a thing of the past. A career in the skilled trades allows you to focus on YOUR future — one that’s HIGH-PAYING, ENGAGING and COMMUNITY-FOCUSED. Experience the advantage!