Earn while you learn

Workers have learned trades or a craft through apprenticeship programs that provide "earn while you learn" opportunities for centuries all over the world. Through this time-honored method, apprenticeship programs combine paid on-the-job training with formal classroom instruction over a period of years to mentor and nurture craftsmanship that will last a lifetime.

California is currently recruiting candidates for apprenticeships in many of the building trades as hundreds of thousands of jobs are being created to rebuild the State’s bridges, roads, schools, and levees. Under California law, there must be one apprentice for every five journeymen employed on these public works projects. It is estimated that California will need nearly 200,000 apprentices over the next 10 to 12 years, especially carpenters, ironworkers, laborers, operating engineers and cement masons.

Who can be an apprentice?

Anyone from the age of 17 with a high school diploma or a GED who demonstrates perseverance, ambition, and initiative may be eligible for an apprenticeship program. However, it’s important to select and pursue a craft that you have some aptitude for, or have some previous experience in, as well as the physical ability to perform. It’s also important to find out if you meet the minimum qualifications for that trade or craft. For more information about minimum qualifications, go to: www.das.ca.gov.

Here's how apprenticeship programs work

Apprenticeship training is usually supervised by a Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JAC) &emdash: sometimes called Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC), or a Unilateral Apprenticeship Committee (UAC).

The training is designed by local apprenticeship committees along with California Division of Apprenticeship Standards consultants who are registered with the State. The committees and consultants define the number of hours required to learn the craft or trade as well as other processes. Most apprenticeships require four years of training, but some can take as long as six years.

At the start of their training programs, apprentices are usually paid somewhere between 35 to 50 percent of the wage being earned by a skilled craftsman, and receives increases at regular intervals throughout their training program. In some occupations and industries, apprentices receive fringe benefits such as vacation pay, health and welfare coverage, pensions, etc., in addition to their regular wages.

Apprentices also attend classes, usually at night at public schools such as community colleges, four hours each week for about 108 hours a year. Classes may include such subjects as safety laws and regulations, mathematics, drafting, blueprint reading and other sciences connected with a particular trade. Apprentices are usually required to furnish their own hand tools.

Prior to enrollment in an apprenticeship program, each apprentice signs an agreement with a JAC, UAC or an individual employer. When the apprenticeship is successfully completed, the State of California will issue a "Certificate of Completion."

How do I apply for an apprenticeship?

Candidates for apprenticeship programs can apply directly to an employer, the JAC, UAC, or the appropriate union for the trade or craft selected. In some cases, aptitude or other tests may be required, and there are waiting lists in some trades.

For more information about California apprenticeships, go to: www.das.ca.gov.