What is an Apprentice?
An apprentice is learning a trade by working under the guidance of skilled workers of that trade, called journeymen. It is on-the-job training. You earn while you learn and are paid a wage from the first day you become a working apprentice. As an apprentice your wages will start at approximately 50% of the journeyman rate of pay and will increase periodically until you reach the full journeyman scale. It takes four years to become a journeyman carpenter. But remember, the training costs you nothing!
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The benefits of an apprenticeship
The rewards of apprenticeship training are the wages and benefits you receive as a skilled craftsperson. Our apprentices are members of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, the largest building trades union in North America. You’ll be working under the protection of a union contract that includes health insurance, pension and savings benefits.
Progressively increasing wage with excellent benefits
Nationally recognized credential: Apprenticeship Certification
Improved job security and standard of living
Opportunity for college credit
Pride and dignity of completing the most comprehensive vocational carpentry training program offered anywhere
What do I need to apply for the apprenticeship?
Mandatory Requirements
Valid government photo ID (17 years old to apply, 18 years old to work)
High school diploma, GED or equivalent
If accepted, the applicant will be required to perform a substance abuse evaluation
Optional/Supplemental Documentation
As an interested party for the apprenticeship program, you may choose to submit evidence of having a valid driver’s license to enhance your application.
Be Advised
Upon acceptance into the Carpenters Apprenticeship Program, you are required to pay fees totaling up to $500 (varies by craft).
In addition, you will be responsible for the purchase of your own tools. You will receive a tool list of required tools once you have been accepted into the Apprenticeship Program.