What is an apprentice?

An apprentice is a paid employee who learns a craft through planned, supervised on-the-job training and related classroom instruction. An apprentice is taught safety, proper use, care and safe handling of tools and equipment related to their particular trade. 

How do I qualify?

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Most programs require that you have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Some trades may require a math or science course, aptitude test, drivers license and that you are physically able to perform the work in that trade. 

How is an apprenticeship structured and how am I paid?

Apprentices work on actual construction sites under the direct supervision of a qualified journey worker. An apprentice also attends school during the day or at night depending on the program in order to obtain the required related classroom material. An apprentice is paid for time on the job site and entry level pay ranges from $12.00 to $22.00 per hour. In addition to an hourly salary your employer will also contribute on the apprentices behalf for family health care, pensions, and or annuities. 

College vs. Apprenticeship?

While in college you pay thousands of dollars preparing for a job and incurring debt. After graduating you try to find a job having an education but no experience. Most likely not finding a job in the field in which you went to school for. Unlike college, apprenticeships provide you with a paying job in your field during the course of your education so when you graduate you are already employed. Upon completion of an apprenticeship you are debt free from schooling and educational training.  

What is skilled construction trades?

Skilled construction trades consists of journey persons and apprentices whose vocations work together as a team building commercial, industrial, and residential projects in the state of Virginia. Such projects include but are not limited to schools, hospitals, warehouses, high-rise buildings, power generation, chemical plants, manufacturing, oil refineries, military installations, etc.