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Tag: Apprenticeship

The best trade apprenticeships in construction
Trade apprenticeships offer hands-on learning while simultaneously earning a salary, making them an attractive alternative to traditional education programs—especially for those with tactile learning styles. Apprenticeships offer many benefits, including practical training, mentorship opportunities, and fewer student loans. The best trade apprenticeships include HVAC technicians, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and welders.

Quick look
- Apprenticeships allow you to get hands-on experience while working towards earning trade credentials.
- Some of the best trade apprenticeships include HVAC technicians, masons, plumbers, heavy equipment operators, electricians, welders, and carpenters.
- The benefits of apprenticeships include network building, personalized mentoring, reduced student debt, and job security.
- The highest paid apprenticeships in the trades include HVAC technicians, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and welders.
What are apprenticeships in construction?

If you want to break into the construction industry, an apprenticeship is one of the best ways to begin. Apprenticeships blend classroom instruction with hands-on learning, allowing you to work in your chosen field and learn the ins and outs of the trade—all while collecting a paycheck. Depending on the trade, apprenticeship programs typically take 2-5 years. When finished, you’ll have a few years of work experience under your belt and the credentials you need to begin working in your field.

Some of the best trade apprenticeships include:
- HVAC technician
- Plumber
- Electrician
- Welder
- Carpenter
- Mason
- Heavy equipment operator
5 benefits of apprenticeships in trades

An apprenticeship is a fantastic way to build a career in the trades. Here are just a few of the many benefits associated with an apprenticeship:
1. Hands-on experience: Unlike traditional education, where you’ll spend years learning theory before ever getting a chance to put it into practice, apprenticeships allow you to apply your knowledge right as you’re learning it. This is especially useful if you’re a tactile or hands-on learner. You’ll be working on actual job sites and gaining practical experience that’ll help you hit the ground running after finishing your program.
2. Building a professional network: Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll learn from professors in your program while working alongside experienced professionals on job sites. These pros can guide you, offer advice and insight, recommend you for future jobs, and help advance your career.
3. Avoiding student debt: College can come with a steep bill, which can be a significant roadblock for many seeking post-secondary education. Apprenticeships allow you to earn as you learn, meaning you’ll owe less in student loans (or sometimes be able to avoid them altogether).
4. Personalized mentorship: An apprenticeship means you won’t just be learning from textbooks; you’ll have experienced professionals mentoring you. This one-on-one attention means you can receive personalized feedback on your work, allowing you to identify areas for improvement and develop confidence in your abilities.
5. Job security and high demand: Skilled trades are remarkably reliable jobs—they’re always in demand. Completing an apprenticeship means you’ll graduate from your program with the network and experience needed to secure a great-paying job immediately and enjoy job security throughout your career.
The 5 highest paid apprenticeships in construction

When choosing which apprenticeship is right for you, there are dozens of factors to consider, including your skills, interests, what the day-to-day would look like in your trade, and, of course, the salary. While all trades offer competitive wages, some apprenticeships can lead to particularly lucrative careers.

1. Plumbing apprenticeship

Average reported salary: $47,984

Plumbers are essential in commercial and residential construction projects. As an apprentice, you’ll learn how to install and repair piping systems and ensure buildings have safe, efficient water and sewage lines.

2. Electrical apprenticeship

Average reported salary: $47,449

Electricity powers everything from lights to Wi-Fi, electric shavers, and life-saving medical devices. Electricians keep the modern world running by installing electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial applications. This is a highly technical field with high earning potential.

3. Elevator technician apprenticeship

Average reported salary: $42,263

Elevator mechanics install and maintain elevators, escalators, and lifts. This specialized trade pays high wages, often reaching six figures after completing an apprenticeship and gaining experience.

4. Welder apprenticeship

Average reported salary: $40,731

Welders use metal to construct essential pipelines, buildings, and bridges. This trade requires precision and skill, and experienced welders are among the highest-paid in the trade.

5. Carpenter apprenticeship

Average reported salary: $30,848

As a carpentry apprentice, you’ll learn the essentials of woodworking, from cabinetry to residential renovations, plus how to read blueprints, take measurements, and assemble larger wood structures.

Final thoughts

Choosing an apprenticeship in the construction trades is one of the smartest career moves you can make. You’ll gain valuable skills while collecting a paycheck, creating a professional network, and setting yourself to hit the ground running with a high-paying, in-demand career. Whether you’re interested in plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems, there’s an apprenticeship program ready to get you the hands-on experience you need to launch your new career.

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April 30, 2025
Arizona invests $1 million to expand BuildItAZ apprenticeships
In a significant move to bolster Arizona’s construction workforce, Governor Katie Hobbs, in collaboration with the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO), has announced a $1 million investment in the BuildItAZ Apprenticeship Initiative. This funding aims to equip Arizonans with essential skills for construction and trade jobs, focusing on recruiting women into these sectors.

Launched in 2023, BuildItAZ has already made notable strides toward the administration’s goal of doubling the number of registered construction and trade apprentices by 2026. The initiative enrolled over 1,000 new apprentices in its first year, reflecting a growing interest in these fields.

The newly allocated $1 million in federal workforce funds will support registered apprenticeship programs in several key areas:
- Enhancing efforts to attract new apprentices and retain those already enrolled.
- Providing wrap-around services such as childcare and transportation ensures apprentices can fully participate in their training.
- Launching public information campaigns to encourage more Arizonans, especially women, to pursue careers in construction and trades.
“We are continuing to build a strong construction talent pipeline to meet the demands of our growing state,” said Governor Hobbs. “Apprenticeships open up economic opportunities for Arizonans, are jobs from day one, pay good wages, and teach people valuable skills that pave the way to family-supporting careers.”

The initial phase of BuildItAZ invested approximately $650,000, assisting five organizations in expanding registered apprenticeship training opportunities. This funding directly supported over 500 apprentices by providing essential resources such as tools, boots, books, tuition, and program support, including training equipment and instructors.

“The grant has improved our ability to provide high-quality electrical training,” said Shawn Hutchinson of the Phoenix Electrical JATC Apprenticeship Program, a BuildItAZ grantee. “We’ve enhanced our curriculum, integrating more hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology. This helps us produce the most qualified and safety-conscious electrical workers in the industry.”

The construction industry plays a pivotal role in Arizona’s economic development. By investing in apprenticeship programs, the state is addressing the immediate need for skilled labor and laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth. Apprenticeships allow individuals to earn while they learn, gaining hands-on experience and industry-recognized credentials that lead to well-paying, stable careers.

Moreover, the focus on recruiting women into these programs is a significant step toward diversifying the workforce and promoting inclusivity within the industry. By providing support services such as childcare, the initiative aims to remove barriers that may have previously hindered participation from underrepresented groups.

As Arizona grows, the demand for a skilled construction workforce becomes increasingly critical. The BuildItAZ Apprenticeship Initiative represents a proactive approach to meeting this demand, ensuring the state’s infrastructure development keeps pace with its economic expansion.

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December 20, 2024
How apprenticeships give students a one-up in the trades

Apprenticeships have long been a pathway for individuals looking to enter the trades, and they’re gaining even more recognition. For students, the advantages are clear: hands-on experience, a chance to earn while learning, and entering the workforce without the burden of debt. These programs help bridge the skills gap while providing a more accessible route to a rewarding career in fields such as construction, electrical work, and plumbing.

Why become an apprentice

Apprenticeships provide a unique mix of classroom learning and practical on-the-job experience. These programs are often organized through trade unions or employers like the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency. They typically last 1-4 years and culminate in certification or licensing. One key benefit is that apprentices earn a paycheck from day one, which increases as their skills develop. This “earn while you learn” model offers financial stability while gaining qualifications.

Moreover, apprenticeships offer a clear career path. Unlike traditional college routes, where a degree doesn’t always guarantee a job, an apprentice is usually hired by the company that sponsored their training. Upon completing their program, apprentices often have a job waiting for them—making this a secure option for those looking to enter the trades.

There’s something for everyone

Manual labor might come to mind when people think of apprenticeships, but there’s a lot more to it than swinging a hammer or driving a nail. Numerous trades apprenticeships are available, catering to various interests and skill sets. Construction, electrical, and plumbing are well-known, but industries such as HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), automotive technology, and even technology-related roles like IT infrastructure have apprenticeships.

Those interested in the latest technology can find careers in technical trades that combine manual skills with cutting-edge tools. For example, electricians now work with advanced home automation systems, and mechanics repair electric vehicles. No matter your interest, apprenticeships offer a range of opportunities.

The benefits for students

Government grants and incentives

Many apprenticeships are supported by government funding and incentives. These help reduce the cost of education and provide additional grants to make the learning process more accessible. Programs often cover tuition, materials, and equipment fees, minimizing the financial burden for students.

Earning while learning

One of the major draws of apprenticeships is the ability to earn while gaining qualifications. Students aren’t just learning; they work and get paid for their labor. This allows them to start building financial independence early in their careers. Most programs offer incremental wage increases as the apprentice progresses, meaning that paychecks grow as skills and experience are gained.

You already have a job

Another benefit is job security. Unlike traditional college graduates who may face a tough job search after earning their degrees, apprentices often have jobs waiting for them upon completion. Employers are typically invested in their apprentices’ success, having trained them specifically for their company’s needs. The skills gained during an apprenticeship make students more employable and competitive in the job market.

Things to consider before entering the trades

While apprenticeships provide a great opportunity, there are factors to consider before taking the plunge. Trade jobs can be physically demanding and require long hours, and some aspects of the work may not appeal to everyone.

Environmental factors

Many trades require working outside, sometimes in less-than-ideal weather conditions. Whether it’s pouring rain, freezing temperatures, or the blistering heat, tradespeople must often brave the elements to get the job done. Students considering this path should be prepared to face these challenges and be comfortable with outdoor work environments.

Seasonal work

Certain trades, such as roofing or landscaping, depend heavily on the season. This can result in periods of downtime, particularly in the winter months. While some trades have year-round demand, others may have slower seasons where work is scarce. Students should know how the seasons could impact their workload and income.

Commutes

Many apprenticeships require traveling to different job sites, meaning commuting can be a significant part of the workday. The nature of some trades, such as construction, means that jobs can be scattered across different locations. A reliable means of transportation and the willingness to travel is important for those entering the trade.

Not all costs may be covered

Though apprenticeships often include significant financial support, not every expense is covered. Certain materials, equipment, or even specific courses might require additional out-of-pocket costs. Prospective apprentices should look into what’s covered and plan accordingly to ensure unforeseen expenses don’t catch them off guard.

Bottom line

Apprenticeships are a powerful way for students to jumpstart their trade careers. From hands-on experience to financial incentives and job security, they offer a practical alternative to traditional higher education. However, weighing the job’s demands, including environmental factors and potential seasonal work, is important before making the leap. For those seeking a reliable and rewarding career path, apprenticeships offer a valuable head start in the trades.

November 7, 2024
Liberty Township welcomes new Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Center

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown announced the construction of the Butler Warren County Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Center (JACT) in Liberty Township, Ohio. A grant from the U.S. Department of Economic Administration will provide $1.5 million for the 19,900-square-foot project.

The new facility will train workers to have the necessary skills to obtain secure union jobs with great pay. The project is said to generate $20 million in private investment, create an expected 300 jobs, and retain another 200 jobs.

“As we position Ohio to lead in the industries of the future, we need to make sure the next generation of Ohioans have the skills they need to succeed,” said Senator Brown. “The Butler Warren County Joint Apprenticeship Training Center will prepare students for careers in the trades and expand opportunities for more Ohioans to get good-paying, union jobs.”

The $1.5 million grant is expected to cover roughly 50% of the funding needed to complete the facility, which will cover the 4300 block on Millikin Road. The IBEW Local Union 648 will own the building and lease the land to the new JACT training facility.

Robert Angst, training director for Butler Warren Country Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Center, says, “We’re busting at the seams here. We’re looking to expand our hands-on lab area and update the program to allow more space so we can start taking on more apprentices and have an updated apprenticeship model.”

Angst confirmed they contracted a company to write grants to aid in expanding their facility, and it took more than a year to apply for the funding they received through the U.S. Economic Development Administration. However, the bank processes, documented, and working with EDA representatives have paid off. The EDA stated that partnering will boost the capacity for electrical trade apprenticeships, preparing Butler and Warren County residents for quality jobs and economic resilience.

Once the zoning process is completed and approved, the facility construction will take an estimated 8-12 months.

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October 30, 2024
Support Ontario Youth (SOY) Skilled Trades Workforce Development Program

The Skilled Trades Workforce Development program offered by Support Ontario Youth (SOY) provides a valuable pathway for young individuals looking to enter the trades industry. As Ontario continues to face a shortage of skilled tradespeople, SOY’s initiative aims to fill this gap by offering essential resources, guidance, and hands-on opportunities to aspiring apprentices.

The program focuses on mentorship, apprenticeship matching, and career development and is designed to help youth succeed in a highly demanded and rewarding field.

What the Skilled Trades Workforce Development program offers

SOY’s Skilled Trades Workforce Development program provides a structured approach to helping young people kickstart their trade careers. The program supports a variety of trades, including electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, all of which are essential for Ontario’s growing construction and infrastructure needs.

Mentorship

The program’s core benefit is its mentorship component. SOY connects apprentices with experienced tradespeople who guide them through learning a trade, from technical skills to workplace expectations. These mentors act as role models, offering invaluable advice and insights to those just starting in the industry.

Whether they’re learning how to handle the day-to-day challenges of the job or developing long-term career goals, apprentices gain real-world knowledge that textbooks alone cannot provide.

Apprenticeship matching

One of the major hurdles young people face when entering the trades is finding the right apprenticeship opportunity. Support Ontario Youth’s program addresses this issue by helping connect apprentices with employers who are eager to take on new talent. This matching process ensures that youth are placed in positions where they can learn, grow, and eventually gain certification in their chosen field.

Career support

In addition to apprenticeship matching, the program offers career counseling and guidance. This includes help with navigating the certification process, applying for grants, and understanding employment contracts. SOY also assists with workplace safety training, which is critical in the trade industry. Through these services, apprentices gain confidence in their abilities and receive the support needed to advance in their careers.

Addressing the skilled trades shortage

Ontario is facing a skilled trades shortage, and programs like this are vital in closing the gap. By training and equipping the next generation of workers, Support Ontario Youth is helping to ensure that essential services like plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry continue to thrive. This benefits both the apprentices, who receive stable employment opportunities, and the province, which can rely on a robust workforce to meet its infrastructure needs.

The Skilled Trades Workforce Development program also promotes diversity within the trades by making it accessible to people from all backgrounds. With its hands-on approach and strong focus on mentorship, the program ensures that everyone, regardless of experience or education level, has a fair chance at success.

Why the SOY Skilled Trades Workforce Development program is crucial for youth

For many young people, the traditional academic route of attending college or university may not be the right fit. The SOY Skilled Trades Workforce Development program offers an alternative that leads directly to a successful career in the trades. With the opportunity to earn while they learn, apprentices can gain practical skills without incurring significant student debt, making it an attractive option for those looking to build a stable future.

In addition, the trades industry is known for providing long-term job security and competitive wages. As more skilled workers retire, the demand for new tradespeople grows, making it an ideal time to enter the field. The SOY program ensures that apprentices are well-prepared to meet this demand, offering a clear pathway from training to employment.

Bottom line

Support Ontario Youth’s Skilled Trades Workforce Development program is a crucial resource for young individuals looking to enter the trades industry. By offering mentorship, apprenticeship matching, and comprehensive career support, the program helps bridge the gap between aspiring tradespeople and the opportunities they need to succeed.

For anyone considering a career in the skilled trades, this program provides the tools, guidance, and connections necessary to thrive in an industry that’s both stable and in high demand.

October 17, 2024
Your guide to apprenticeships in the skilled trades
Apprenticeships are a form of post-secondary education offering hands-on experience in your skilled trade. They combine paid on-the-job training and classroom education, leading to a trade credential or “ticket.” Typically, apprenticeships involve choosing a trade, finding an employer, becoming registered, and completing your in-class learning and on-the-job hourly requirements.

Quick look
- Apprenticeships are a form of post-secondary education that combines paid hands-on experience in your skilled trade and in-class job-specific learning.
- Most apprenticeships take two to five years to complete.
- Applying for an apprenticeship allows you to get hands-on experience while getting paid and almost guarantees a job upon completion.
- Applying for an apprenticeship in Canada and the US involves finding a trade and apprenticeship opportunity, securing an employee sponsor, and completing your hours.
What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a type of post-secondary education that combines in-class learning with hands-on experience in the workplace. Once you have completed both the in-class and on-the-job training, you can apply for your certificate of qualification or your “ticket.”

Most trades offer a combination of work and study. Students will work for a year or complete a specified number of hours, then go back to school to study for eight to twelve weeks (full-time or part-time) and repeat until the apprenticeship is completed. About 80% of your time is spent on the job and 20% in technical in-class learning.

In most cases, it takes between two to five years to complete an apprenticeship.

The lowdown: As an apprentice, you learn the skilled trade of your choice by mentoring experienced workers—and you get paid to do it.

Why become an apprentice?

Being hired for a job with little to no experience is virtually impossible, especially in the skilled trades. How do you get around that? Apprenticeships.

Skilled workers are in high demand. With hundreds of careers, there’s a skilled trade for every interest and aptitude. A good work ethic, a positive attitude, a willingness to learn, and a Certificate of Qualification almost guarantee a job upon completing an apprenticeship.

Enrolling in an apprenticeship program and learning a trade also allows students to ‘earn as they learn.’ Rather than accruing student debt throughout a university program, apprenticeships can help students decrease debt during their post-secondary education.

How to secure an apprenticeship: A step-by-step guide

Finding an apprenticeship in Canada

1. Choose a trade

With more than 300 designated trades in Canada, career paths in the skilled trades are full of potential. Of these trades, 54 can have a Red Seal Trade designation.

Typically, skilled tradespeople work in one of the following sectors:
- Construction
- Transportation
- Manufacturing and Industrial
- Services
- Information and digital technology
You can learn more about in-demand skilled trades across Canada broken down by province by visiting the Government of Canada’s website.

2. Find apprenticeship opportunities

Once you’ve picked the trade you want to get into, it’s time to find potential apprenticeships to apply for. Here are some places to start looking for apprenticeships:
3. Find an employer

Depending on your educational institution, you may be given an apprenticeship opportunity or have to find one independently. If you attend trades school, they may help you find opportunities for an apprenticeship; if you don’t, you’ll need to find and apply to one on your own.

Once you find an apprenticeship opportunity, you must find an employer to sponsor you. When this happens, your employer agrees to provide you with on-the-job training. At this stage, you are entering into an agreement with your employer.

Note: Apprenticeships in Quebec work a bit differently. You will be required to attend an in-class training session at a CEGEP, college, or training institution before you can complete on-the-job training with an employer.

4. Register your agreement

Registering your apprenticeship is important to ensure your work hours are valid. You can register your training agreement with your provincial or territorial apprenticeship authority.

Here’s where you can start for each province:

Alberta

British Colombia

Manitoba

New Brunswick

Newfoundland and Labrador

Northwest Territories

Nova Scotia

Nunavut

Ontario

Prince Edward Island

Quebec

Saskatchewan

Yukon

5. Apply for financial aid (if you need it)

Tuition fees can be steep. If you need financial assistance for your apprenticeship, here are some options:
- Apprenticeship Incentive Grant: Offers up to $2,000 total per person to help apprentices cover the costs of continuing a career in the skilled trades.
- Apprenticeship Completion Grant: Offers $2,000 total per person to help apprentices after they have completed their apprenticeship training.
- Canada Apprentice Loan: Offers up to $4,000 in interest-free loans per period of technical training.
- Tax deductions and credits for apprentices and tradespersons: Tax credits and incentives that apprentices can benefit from.
6. Work, learn, and earn

Now that you’ve secured an apprenticeship and are registered with your province, it’s time to start working and earning! Most apprenticeships take two to five years to complete, depending on your trade and the hour requirement.

7. Become certified

Congratulations! Once you’ve completed your in-class learning and on-the-job training, you can apply for your journeyperson certification. This certification is also called a certificate of qualification or your “ticket.”

Note: If you’re completing your apprenticeship in a Red Seal trade—doing so allows you to work anywhere in Canada—you will need to complete a Red Seal Examination. You can find all the information you need about studying and writing your exam on the Red Seal website.

Finding an apprenticeship in the United States

1. Choose a trade

The United States has hundreds of designated trades, most offering apprenticeship opportunities. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, some skilled trades require an apprenticeship to enter. These include:
2. Find apprenticeship opportunities

Once you’ve found a trade that interests you, you’ll need to look for potential apprenticeships to apply for. Here are some places to start looking for apprenticeships:
3. Find an employer

The minimum starting age for registered apprenticeships in the United States is 16—but in certain occupations, the minimum age is 18.

Once you find an apprenticeship, you’ll need to ensure you meet the qualifications before finding an employer—qualifications vary by apprenticeship program. Finding an employer involves entering into an agreement whereby the employer agrees to provide you with on-the-job training.

4. Register your agreement

To legitimize your apprenticeship, you’ll need to register with the state.

There are two types of entities responsible for registering and overseeing Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs):
1. U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Office of Apprenticeship (OA) a
2. State Apprenticeship Agencies (SAA)
You can find a list of national, regional, or state apprenticeship offices on the ApprenticeshipUSA website. Contact your local office to ask about how to register as an apprentice.

5. Apply for financial aid (if you need it)

There are still fees that apply to apprenticeships, and for people who need financial aid, now is the time to secure it. This financial support may help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, supplies, and other required class materials.

Some employers and apprenticeship sponsors work with local educational institutions to ensure their apprenticeship programs are applicable with the following sources of financial assistance:
- Federal Pell Grants
- State Tuition Support (contact your state agency or Apprenticeship.gov to find out if your state qualifies)
- Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF)—May be applicable only if your apprenticeship training or program was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic
- GI Bill Benefits
6. Work, learn, and earn

Now that you’ve secured an apprenticeship in the skilled trade of your choice and registered with your state, it’s time to start working and earning! Most apprenticeships take two to five years to complete, depending on your trade and the hour requirement.

7. Become certified

Congratulations! Once you complete your apprenticeship program, the Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship or your local State Apprenticeship Agency will provide you with a nationally recognized certificate of completion.
February 12, 2024