Getting Started
The first step toward understanding a career in the trades is to check out our Careers CD. On this interactive CD, you will hear directly from trades people on the jobsite about their decision to become a steamfitter, plumber, ironworker, etc. You will also have wage, benefit and other useful information at your fingertips, giving you a better picture of what to expect from a career in the trades. According to recent statistics, the average age of an apprentice is 28 years old.
Once you've reviewed the CD and the requirements listed below, please contact an apprenticeship coordinator for additional information directly from the trade you are interested in.
After reaching out to the apprenticeship coordinator, if you feel that your skill set is not where it needs to be, please contact BIG STEP at (414) 342-9787 or go to http://wrtp.org. BIG STEP will help prepare you for the specific certification you need to become an apprentice, including tutoring for the apprenticeship exams.
Requirements:
All apprenticeships require the same basic criteria:
- Maintain a C average or better in high school
- Obtain your high school diploma or GED
- Obtain and keep a valid drive license
- Maintain good physical condition
- Contact the Joint Apprentice Training Coordinator for the trade you are choosing and fill out an apprenticeship application
- Schedule and perform an apprenticeship aptitude test
- Perform a drug test
- Receive committee approval for application into a construction apprenticeship
For more detailed information about becoming a construction apprentice, contact the Joint Apprenticeship Coordinator (PDF) for the craft of your interest.
