Building Trades Apprenticeship Information

- APPRENTICESHIP COORDINATORS
- ASBESTOS WORKERS
- BOILERMAKERS
- BRICKLAYERS
- CARPENTERS
- CEMENT MASONS
- COMPOSITION ROOFERS
- ELECTRICIANS
- GLAZIERS
- IRON WORKERS
- LABORERS
- MILLWRIGHTS
- OPERATING ENGINEERS
- PAINTERS
- PIPE FITTERS
- PLASTERERS
- PLUMBERS
- SHEET METAL WORKERS
- SPRINKLER FITTERS

Building Trades Apprenticeship Coordinators
Directors Association of Kentucky, Inc.

WHAT IS THE BUILDING TRADES APPRENTICESHIP COORDINATORS/DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION OF KENTUCKY?
It is an organization of union building trade apprenticeship program directors. Our purpose is to educate the community about the value of apprenticeship and the benefits of a career in the building trades industry.
Apprenticeship is the gateway to many career opportunities which offer virtually unlimited advancement. The domestic and international job markets encompass many projects such as construction of hydroelectric dams, high-rise buildings, schools, hospitals, commercial facilities and interstate highways.
Rewarding careers in the union building trades industries are complimented by competitive wages, medical and life insurance benefits, secure local and national retirement programs and specialized quality training. These benefits are made possible by the joint efforts of labor and management in each trade.
Building Trades Joint Apprenticeship and Training programs are described in the following career directory. Rewards and benefits of these careers are largely unmatched in today's job market.

WHAT ARE THE BENIFITS OF A J.A.T.C. APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM?
Apprenticeship in the building trades is the doorway to opportunity. Apprentices learn skills which can be used throughout their careers. Today's ambitious apprentices will become the supervisors, contractors, estimators and superintendents of tomorrow. They will be instrumental in guiding co-workers and other apprentices to improve their trade skills.

Additional benefits of joint labor/management Apprenticeship Programs are:
- Excellent wage rates with guaranteed scheduled increases
- Paid health insurance
- State of the art training facilities
- Safe working conditions
- Guaranteed pension benefits
- College Credits

All programs are registered with the U. S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training and/or the Kentucky Labor Cabinet.
APPRENTICESHIP: OPPORTUNITY IS KNOCKING
What is an Apprentice?
An apprentice is a worker who learns a skilled trade through planned, supervised on-the-job training and related classroom instruction. An apprentice is a regular part of the work force and earns wages while acquiring important skills. The length of an apprenticeship program ranges from three to five years. At the completion of the program, an apprentice becomes a journeyperson, fully qualified to perform the work of the trade and earns full pay for their skill.

How do I Prepare for Apprenticeship?
For those interested in becoming a skilled journeyperson, the importance of a well-rounded high school education cannot be over emphasized. A strong background in math and science is important. Good attendance is a necessity.
Today's competitive industry demands employees who can perform technical tasks, exercise good judgment and possess strong work ethics.

How do I Get Selected?
The selection of apprentices is conducted by the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) of each trade. These committees are staffed by member representatives of both management and labor organizations. Each JATC seeks men and women who demonstrate the best character, aptitude, motivation and personality traits necessary for success in their trade. Apprentice candidates are considered under the Equal Employment Opportunity guidelines. They are required to participate in standardized testing and are personally interviewed by the JATC. It is their goal to select candidates who demonstrate reliability and sincere desire.

What About Training?
To be certain apprentices get proper training, both federal and state agencies establish rules which supervise the progress of the apprentice. Each apprenticeship program must adhere to regulations and standards which are registered with the Kentucky Labor Cabinet. The U. S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training assists in the formulation of, and administration of these standards.
Apprenticeship in construction has been described as "the doorway to opportunity." Apprentices, at very little or no cost to themselves, learn skills they can use the rest of their lives. Training gained through apprenticeship has enabled many workers to advance to better jobs.

ASBESTOS WORKERS

What is an Asbestos Worker?
Today, energy conservation efforts within the construction industry aim at increasing operational efficiency and reducing fuel costs. These efforts have led to the insulation of virtually every commercial and industrial building's furnaces, boilers, pipes and ducts. Insulation is a tremendous energy saving tool. Trained insulation mechanics are needed to install the insulation and weatherproofing materials. Insulators must be mechanically inclined and enjoy working with mathematical formulas that are needed to fabricate insulation.
Working with both your hands and mind, both indoors and outdoors, in all temperatures and weather conditions, will prove to be a challenge in today's construction industry.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
- Math courses
- Industrial Arts
- Mechanical drafting
- Blueprint reading

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program 4 - 5 years
School and on-the-job training

Where Do I Apply?

What is Boilermaker?
A field construction Boilermaker is a building and trades craftsman who works in a variety of commercial, manufacturing and industrial environments. A boilermaker is an individual that is proficient in the layout, fabrication and erection of boilers, pressure vessels, tanks, air pollution equipment and other associated equipment utilized in the utility, petro-chemical, chemical, paper and pulp, and steel industries. This work requires a mastery of all welding processes, oxygen / acetylene burning, blueprint reading and rigging skills. The field construction boilermaker must complete a four year apprentice program.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
- General math, algebra, geometry and trigonometry
- General science, chemistry and physics
- Drafting, blueprint reading and mechanical drawing
- Welding
How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age by date of employment
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license
Have good attendance record
What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 4 years
Probationary period - 6 months
Minimum of 144 hours of classroom related training each year
Starting pay - 70% journeyman wage
6000 hours of on the job training

Where Do I Apply?

BRICKLAYERS

What is a Bricklayer?
Bricklayers work in varied aspects of building, industrial, commercial and residential construction. They build walls, partitions, chimneys and other structural forms from brick, block or other masonry material. They work with mortar using a trowel. They also use chisels, joiners, block hammers and power saws.
Much of the bricklayer's work is done outdoors and generally depends upon suitable weather conditions. It is a very strenuous trade with much stooping and lifting required. A bricklayer needs to be able to work in a variety of duties requiring close tolerances and must be able to work well in heights.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
- Good reading ability
- Geometry
- Science
- Blueprint reading

How do I qualify?

At least 17 years of age
In good physical condition
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license

What are the program specifics?
Length of program # 4 years
6 month probationary period
A minimum of 144 hours of classroom related instruction each year
Starting pay - 50% journeyman wage

Where Do I Apply?

CARPENTERS

What is a Carpenter?
A carpenter today is many things, from the builder of small residential homes, to the fabricator of the most complex industrial setting. The conditions they work in are as varied as the skill levels they possess. They weld metals, mold plastics, saw woods, form concrete, build scaffolds, layout the tallest buildings and put the final key in the door. Their tools are hammers, saws, lasers, digital and electronic devices and organizational skills.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Good personal and social habits
Courses in math, science and communication skills
Develop reasoning and problem solving skills
Acquire related work experience

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Desire to be the best
Have a valid driver's license
Social Security Card & Birth Certificate
What are the program specifics?
Length of program - 4 years
Four weeks of classroom related instruction each year
Starting pay - 50% journeyman wage

Where Do I Apply?

CEMENT MASONS

What is a Cement Mason?
Cement masons finish the exposed concrete surfaces of freshly poured floors, walls, sidewalks, foundations, dams, parking garages and lots, runways, warehouses, loading dock floors, roads, and curbs to specified textures or finishes. They level, shape and smooth surfaces using straight edgers or power screeds. Most of the work is in industrial and commercial buildings. Cement masons must know the differing working characteristics of various cement and concrete mixes.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Good work ethics and attendance
Willing to do physical work
Good math and reading skills
Willing to work outdoors

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 3 years
Probationary period - 180 days
Minimum of 144 hours of classroom related training each year
Starting pay - 55% journeyman wage

Where Do I Apply?

COMPOSITION ROOFERS

What is a Roofer?
Roofers waterproof and weatherproof buildings. They apply shingles made from fiberglass, slate, tile and cedar or composite material such as felt rubber membrane. They also apply built-up rubber, PVC and modern bitumen.
Roofers work outdoors in all kinds of weather and shut down only when weather is severe. Craftsmen do a great deal of climbing, kneeling, standing, and walking. Persons interested in becoming a roofer must have no fear of heights, a good sense of balance and be keenly aware of safety for themselves and their co-workers.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Good reading ability
General science
General math
Blueprint reading

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 3 years
6 months probationary period
A minimum of 144 hours of classroom related instructions each year
Starting pay - 45% journeyman wage

Where Do I Apply?

ELECTRICIANS

What is an Electrician?
Electrical construction is a dynamic and diverse industry with specialized skills. The electrician must be able to layout, assemble, install, repair, and test entire electrical and electronic systems. Along with their electrical training, journeyperson electricians must have a complete working knowledge of blue print reading and know the National Electric Code and local codes. There is of course the hazard of electrical shock and burns from "live" wires. Therefore, safe work practice is a must. Electricians must be mechanically inclined, physically fit and enjoy working with mathematical formulas.
Electrical work is performed both indoors and outdoors in all temperatures and weather conditions.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Above average reading ability
Algebra, geometry, trigonometry
Physical science
Mechanical drawing and blueprint reading
How do I qualify?
Be 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Successfully completed algebra I (transcripts required)

What are the program specifics?
Length of program - 5 years
A minimum of 8000 hours of on-the-job training
A minimum of 900 hours of classroom related training
Six scheduled pay increases

Where Do I Apply?

GLAZIERS

What is a Glazier?
Glazing consists of installing steel and aluminum framed windows in offices, factories, warehouses, high-rise buildings, retail stores and malls. Glaziers also install revolving and automatic doors. They are sometimes required to work from swing stages on high buildings.
Glaziers work indoors and out, depending upon the task to be done. Window fabricating and some installations are done indoors, however glaziers do much of their work outdoors or in unheated areas.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Math classes
Blueprint reading
Mechanical drawing
Welding

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license
Physically able to perform the work of the trade

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 4 years
Home study course
Pay increases every 6 months

Where Do I Apply?

IRON WORKERS

What is an Iron Worker?
Iron workers are skilled workers who erect, assemble or install fabricated structural metal products, usually large metal beams. These beams are used in the erection of industrial, commercial or large residential buildings. Iron workers also erect the steel framework on bridges, storage tanks and overhead crane runways that support heavy equipment. They also erect pre-cast concrete, ornamental iron work such as stairways, catwalks, gratings, grills, screens, siding and metal windows. Iron workers who do rigging work move heavy machinery, pressure vessels, storage tanks and materials.
Most of the work is done outdoors. An iron worker cannot have a fear of heights. They must be keenly aware of the dangers to themselves and others.

How do I Qualify?
At least 18 years of age
In good physical condition
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Pass a drug test

What are the program specifics?
Length of program - 4 years
1 year probationary period
A minimum of 144 hours of classroom related instructions each year
Starting pay - 50% journeyman wage
Health insurance, pension plan and annuity

Where Do I Apply?

LABORERS

What is a Laborer?
Laborers must have common knowledge of all work performed by building trades people because they are tenders or helpers of many other crafts. They often operate small power tools, work in demolition, help on highway work and mix mortar for bricklayers and lime for plasterers. A laborer must have a broad knowledge of tool use and safety.
Laborers are exposed to a variety of weather conditions, often work at heights or below ground. Work is strenuous with much lifting and carrying. A laborer must be able to do repetitive tasks.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Good reading ability
Courses in math and science
Develop reasoning and problem solving skills

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
In good physical condition

Where Do I Apply?

MILLWRIGHTS

What is a Millwright?
Millwrights are skilled construction mechanics who study and interpret blueprints and then put their knowledge and expertise to work drilling, welding, and bolting in order to have a perfect fit. Millwrights sometimes work to specifications requiring tolerances to a thousandth of an inch.
Millwrights install conveyor systems, escalators, giant electrical turbines and generators. They also install and do maintenance on machinery in factories and do much of the precision work in nuclear power plants.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Mechanical drawing
Metal or industrial shop
General math courses
Blue print reading
Welding

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Be physically able to perform the work of the trade
Have a valid driver's license
Social Security Card & Birth Certificate

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 4 years
On-the-job and classroom related training
Starting pay - approximately 50% journeyman wage

Where Do I Apply?

OPERATING ENGINEERS

What is an Operating Engineer?
An operating engineer operates construction equipment that assists other trades in the construction of roads, bridges, dams, buildings both large and small and many other structures.
The work of an operating engineer is divided into three general classifications:
Operating Equipment - Used in construction such as dozers, graders, backhoes and cranes.
Repairing and Earth Moving Equipment - Used in the building of roads, bridges, dams and
large buildings.
Stationary Engineer- Duties include operating and maintaining building and mechanical systems.
How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Good math skills
Good reading ability
Blue print reading
Mechanical ability
Welding
How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age in the year they apply
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license and be capable of passing the Commercial Driver's License test
Have dependable transportation
Be willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Pass a drug test

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program: 6000 hours on-the-job
Probationary period - 600 hours
Classroom related training each year: Minimum of 144 - 160 hours
Starting pay: 50% to 60% of journeyman wage

Where Do I Apply?

* Additional Information and questions:
Operating Engineers Local 181 Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program
722 E. State Road 68
Lynnville, IN 47619
(812) 922-5541

PAINTERS

What is a Painter?
Painters prepare interior and exterior surfaces of buildings and other structures and then apply paint with rollers, brushes or sprayers. They work with varnishes, lacquers, enamels and other materials. A painter must be able to mix paint, as well as operate sand and water blasting machines.
A painter must have good manual dexterity, neat work habits and not be afraid of working at heights. They must be able to read blueprints and do some common math.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Good reading ability
General math ability
Able to lift 60 pound objects
Blueprint reading

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Be physically able to handle the work of the trade
Have transportation

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 3-4 years
Minimum of 144 hours of classroom instruction each year
Starting pay - 60% journeyman wage

Where Do I Apply?

PIPE FITTERS

What is a Pipe Fitter?
A pipe fitter is a master craftsman who installs a wide variety of piping systems. They layout, fabricate and assemble pipes from drawings, blue prints and specifications. They thoroughly test the piping systems for proper operation.
Pipe fitters install and service sophisticated equipment, state-of-the-art controls and piping systems for power generation, pharmaceutical manufacturing, food processing and refrigeration, petroleum refinery, chemical and petrochemical processing. They complete environmental control systems in schools, hospitals, hotels, motels, airports, malls, high-rise offices and apartment buildings.
How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
- General math, algebra, geometry and trigonometry
- General science, chemistry and physics
- Drafting, blueprint reading and mechanical drawing
- Welding, metal and machine shop
How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age by date of employment
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license
What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 5 years
Probationary period - 1 year
Minimum of 216 hours of classroom related training each year
Starting pay - 40% journeyman wage
We currently have a partnership with several community colleges that will allow

apprentices to receive college credits working toward a two-year Associates Degree

Where Do I Apply?

PLASTERERS

What is a Plasterer?
Plasterers apply plaster, cement or acrylic material to the interior and exterior walls and ceilings of hospitals, office buildings, schools, warehouses, residences, shopping centers and large commercial and industrial projects.
The craft requires an extensive amount of outdoor work, therefore weather conditions are a factor.
This is a very active and strenuous trade with much standing, stooping, bending, climbing and carrying. The ability to work at heights is a must.

How do I prepare for the trade?
- The following will be helpful:
- Good reading ability
- General science
- General math
- Drafting

How do I qualify?
At least 17 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 4 years
6 months probationary period
A minimum of 144 hours of classroom related instruction each year
Starting pay - 45% journeyman wage

Where Do I Apply?

PLUMBERS

What is a Plumber?
A plumber is a skilled craftsperson that installs and repairs pipe systems that carry water, waste drainage, natural and medical gas in buildings. They join pipes and install fixtures like bathtubs, toilets, dishwashers, and water heaters. Often they design these systems or work from blueprints and drawings that show where pipes go. They have the very important job of helping to keep water safe for you to use for drinking and bathing.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Good attendance
Algebra, geometry and general math courses
Drafting and blueprint reading
Science and English
Welding

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license with a clean driving record

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 5 years
On-the-job and classroom related training

Where Do I Apply?

SHEET METAL WORKERS

What is a Sheet Metal Worker?
Sheet metal work is an extremely varied trade. Sheet metal workers build interior and exterior architectural work, food service kitchen systems, material handling systems and air handling systems for heating, ventilating and air conditioning.
The sheet metal trade is one of the few modern trades in which the skilled individual takes the raw product, interprets the design drawing, makes the shop drawing, develops the pattern, fabricates the item, installs and maintains it.

How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Good work ethics
Good attendance
Good reading ability
Math skills - algebra, geometry and trigonometry
Mechanical drawing and blueprint reading
Welding

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 5 years
Minimum of 162 hours of classroom related instruction each year

Where Do I Apply?

SPRINKLER FITTERS

What is a Sprinkler Fitter?
A Sprinkler Fitter is a craftsman who installs fire protection systems in commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. They layout fabricate and assemble fire protection systems from drawings, blue prints and specifications. These systems are thoroughly tested by the master craftsmen to ensure that the system affords maximum fire protection for the facilities.
How do I prepare for the trade?
The following will be helpful:
Good attendance
Algebra, geometry and general math courses
Drafting and blueprint reading
Science and English
Welding

How do I qualify?
At least 18 years of age
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Have a valid driver's license
Must be physically fit to do the work of the trade
If applicable, must have a military discharge, and show evidence of discharge, under other than dishonorable conditions.

What are the program specifics?
Length of the program - 5 years
2 years as Grade 1 - 3 years as Grade 2 apprentice
6 months probationary
On-the-job training and correspondence training


Where Do I Apply?