UA Local 434 - Apprenticeship
What is an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship is earning power for your future. It prepares you for positions that require complex skills demanded by today's technology. Apprenticeship is the best way to learn a skilled trade. Apprentices learn highly technical skills through a combination of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction.
Apprenticeship is a state-registered, formal training program that emphasizes on-the-job training under the supervision of a qualified tradesperson, as well as classroom instruction at the technical college. It is governed by the Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards (BAS) in cooperation with the local Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JAC).
Anyone desiring to be an apprentice must find an employer willing to hire and train him/her. The employer must meet minimum requirements and be approved by the BAS and JAC. The apprentice applicant and employer then request approval of a contract through the local Joint Apprenticeship Committee. The contract, between the employer, the apprentice, and the State of Wisconsin (BAS), spells out the requirements of the training period. Once the contract has been approved, the apprentice performs work under the supervision of an experienced journey or master tradesperson.
Most apprenticeship training programs are three to six years in length. Apprentices work on-the-job in their trade under the supervision of qualified journeymen. They take courses in math, science and other technical subjects related to their craft. Most related classroom instruction takes place at the local vocational education colleges. Apprentices are paid on a progressive wage scale beginning from 40% to 65% of the journeyman's rate, depending on the specific trade.
What Can Apprenticeship Do for Me
Apprenticeship offers job satisfaction, marketable skills, good wages, economic security and advancement opportunity. Statistics show that graduate apprentices earn higher wages, have more stable work records and are promoted sooner and more often than workers who have not been trained through apprenticeship programs.
Apprenticeship Programs
Please visit
www.dwd.state.wi.us/apprenticeship/ for information on apprenticeship programs in your area.
