All applications are processed through the individual programs. Applicants are placed on a ranked pool as determined by committee policy. Training agents hire applicants and agree to provide on-the-job training.
An apprentice works about as much as the average industry worker does. And, like fellow workers, an apprentice may be subjected to industry layoffs. Most employers, however, make an effort to have the apprentice work as steadily as possible.
Although it varies from industry to industry, the average starting wage of an apprentice is about 50 percent of a journey workers rate of pay. Programs are required to progressively increase the apprentices wages provided the on-the- job training and school performance is satisfactory and in accordance with apprenticeship committee.
Yes. many apprenticeship programs have a probationary period that lasts from six to twelve months. During this time the apprentice is carefully evaluated for their work ethics and willingness to learn. They get a chance to experience the training to confirm their commitment to the program. Apprentices who do not meet the established standards of performance are removed form the program. In some programs, the classroom portion of the training does not begin until the apprentice has successfully completed the probationary period. Typical reasons for removal include attendance problems, excessive tardiness, late monthly progress reports, insubordination and drug use.
Apprentices must attend related classroom training along with on-the-job-training experience. Most programs require approximately 144 hours of school per year. Programs are required to meet that minimum, but some exceed the 144 hours. This usually works out to one or two evenings per week during the regular school year. Like other aspects of apprenticeship, the local committee determines the related training requirements according to industry standards. Apprentices can earn credit towards an associate degree at a community college for classroom hours or for the completion of an apprenticeship program.
It varies among different occupations, industries and employers. In some cases, apprentices pay the cost of related training. In other cases, industry pays training costs.
Costs vary depending on the program. It’s important for apprentices to have reliable transportation available to get to a job on time, travel from job site to job site or run errands associated with the job. Many programs require that apprentices have a basic tool kit and/or appropriate work clothes, work boots and safety equipment such as gloves or goggles. Some programs supply or pay for these requirements and others do not. It’s important to talk with the committee about the requirements, the costs to the apprentice and whether there is any financial help available.