Apprenticeships

BOILERMAKERS
Shop/Shipyard/Field Construction & Repair, Maintenance Boilermaker - Metal Fabricator
THE WORK
Boilermakers are complete metal fabricators who build and repair ships, fishing boats, ferries, barges, cranes, offshore drilling platforms, boilers, tanks, pressure vessels, plate and structural fabrications. Boilermakers perform welding, automatic and manual burning, blueprint reading, layout and template making, CAD (computer aided drawings), rigging, operation of mobile and stationary cranes, operation of shears, brakes, rolls, drill press, saws and all other metal fabrication equipment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Apprentices are required to work in close and confined spaces inside boilers, vats or tanks or work in high places on top of large vessels. Workers often use acetylene torches, power grinders and other potentially dangerous equipment. The work is very hard and dirty, and heavy lifting is required. There are often periods of unemployment between jobs.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
The apprenticeship, depending upon trade, requires 6,000 -7200 hours (three to four years) of hands on training and 144-176 hours of classroom training per year. Some programs require twenty (20) on-job-training modules to be completed as the various hands on training hours are completed. Classroom instruction is usually in the evenings on your own time although some training may be at the Boilermakers National Training Center in Kansas City, Kansas. Apprentices may also be required to pass a performance-based test each year.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)

1. • At least 18 years, with proof such as birth certificate
2. • High school diploma or GED, with transcript
3. • Letters of recommendation
4. • Committee interview
5. • Must score 70 percent or higher on basic math test
6. • Willing to complete related study courses and attend classroom instruction
7. • Willing to abide by the standards and rules of the area apprenticeship committee
8. • Willing to take drug and alcohol tests annually

CEMENT MASONS
THE WORK
Cement Masons perform a very wide variety of tasks involving or related to concrete. Cement Masons use concrete to build concrete floors, steps, patios, driveways, sidewalks, curb and gutters, and highways. They also may color and/or stamp concrete or expose the aggregate to produce decorative floors, sidewalks, or driveways. Cement Masons are also responsible for repairing and patching new and existing concrete. This includes the use of overlayments, underlayments, and toppings. Many of the processes cement masons use are considered “green” and “sustainable”, such as pervious concrete. Floor polishing, for example is both “sustainable” and decorative.
WORKING CONDITIONS
A cement mason must be physically fit and may be required to carry and handle weights of up to 100 pounds. The job often demands eight or more hours of continuous physical labor, with frequent overtime. Teamwork is essential as well as self-discipline when working alone. Fine craftsmanship skills, precision and finesse are also necessary qualities.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
The program consists of 4000 hours of on-the-job training. Another 160 hours of classroom instruction is required per year. To remain in good standing an apprentice must fulfill the educational requirements and make steady progress.
APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

1. • High school diploma or GED
2. • Physically able to do the work of the trade
3. • Valid Washington State driver’s license
4. • Social security card
5. • Be able to take and pass a drug test

ELECTRICAL WORKERS
Low Energy/Sound & Communication Technician, Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Electrician, Electrical Maintenance & Repair Technician, Estimator, Electric Utility, Substation, Outside Electrician (Line Maintainer), Inspector 

THE WORK
Construction and residential electricians work in all phases of the electrical construction and service industry including Photovoltaic (Solar), Electric Vehicle Charging, Wind Energy, and Green Technology. They do the electrical construction work on projects ranging from single-family residences to state-of-the-art industrial plants. Workers install conduits and wire all lighting, along with switches and converters, to complex systems incorporating computerization and high technology in the installation and maintenance of electrical systems. Their work includes both small and large commercial installation up to and including high-rise buildings. Electricians also do repair and maintenance on all electrical installations. The low voltage/sound and communication apprenticeship includes work processes in fiber optics, telephone systems, sound and fire alarm systems, LAN and structured wiring systems.
WORKING CONDITIONS
This work is done in the full range of environmental conditions to include outside in the dirt, cold, sun, rain, and snow; inside in climate-controlled modern offices, and in state-of-the-art clean rooms in hospitals and manufacturing plants. The work can require considerable standing, bending and reaching and may be conducted in cramped spaces or at great heights.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
These programs, depending upon trade, consist of 4,000-10,000 hours of on-the-job training. Additionally, 160-200 hours of classroom instruction is required per year, two nights per week and may work into day time classes depending on the program.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)
(Requirements vary slightly in different regions)

1. • At least 18 years old (Provide a copy of  birth certificate)
2. • High school graduate or GED (Provide an official transcript for high school years completed and post high school education and training.  All GED records must be submitted if applicable with a  minimum score of 2,500 points.)
3. • At least one year of high school or one quarter of post high school algebra with a grade of “C” or better (sealed high school transcript with proof of algebra grades)
4. • Resident of the geographical area covered by the program for one year prior to application
5. • Military Veteran Discharge papers, if applicable
6. • Physically able to perform work of the trade
7. • Must score “high” on the NJATC electrical trade’s aptitude test over math and reading comprehension.

HEAT AND FROST INSULATORS AND
ASBESTOS WORKERS
THE WORK
Workers in this trade apply insulation materials to pipes, tanks, boilers, ducts, refrigeration equipment and other surfaces requiring thermal control of temperatures. It requires much handling of insulation materials made of fiberglass, rubber, calcium silicate and urethane. Asbestos workers also do removal of asbestos containing materials.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The working conditions tend to be in and around dust. A variety of machinery and power tools are constantly used and workers provide their own hand tools. This trade has a high health hazard risk. Workers must wear respirators, and the proper use and care of respirators is an essential part of the work. Work is conducted in commercial buildings, refineries, ships, and industrial plants in all kinds of indoor and outdoor climates.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
This program requires 8000 hours (four years) of on-the-job training, plus 144 hours each year of related classroom training. Some programs have classroom instruction on Saturdays only, on your own time.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)
• At least 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED/equivalent
• Washington State resident with birth certificate
• Pass a physical examination
• Possess a valid state driver’s license

IRONWORKERS
THE WORK
Workers assemble and erect steel framework and other metal parts in buildings, on bridges, dams and other steel structures. They raise, place and join steel girders and columns to form structural frameworks, including the welding of metal decking.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Ironworkers generally work outside at construction sites. Work is conducted in all kinds of weather. Ironworkers often work at great heights erecting the steel frameworks of skyscrapers, stadiums and bridges. Work can also be confined to cramped quarters. Substantial physical strength is required to carry and place the reinforcing steel for concrete structures. “Tying iron" requires heavy lifting and bending. Workers may often move to different job sites over a large region. Between jobs, there are often periods of unemployment.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
This program requires 6,000-8,000 hours (four years) of on-the-job training, and 204 hours of classroom instruction on your own time to qualify for the journey level examination. Subjects taught include welding, math, rigging, blueprint reading, rebar, fabrication, caulking and sealant, and structural steel.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)

1. • At least 18 years of age
2. • High school diploma or GED preferred
3. • Be able to read, write and speak English
4. • Live within the geographic area of the program
5. • Be drug free
6. • Must be able to perform the rigorous manual labor required by the trade and have a natural ability to work safely at high elevations with a good sense of balance

LABORERS
THE WORK
Construction laborers work every phase of the building activity, preforming tasks that require physical strength. They work on the construction sites of homes, high-rise, buildings, airports, highways, tunnels, dams, bridges, hospitals, schools and other buildings. Laborers skills include concrete, asphalt, blasting, high scaling, drilling, pipelines, grade checking, plan and blueprint reading, flagging, sewers, sewage disposal plants, hazardous waste cleanup, asbestos and lead abatement, hazardous waste workers, scaffolding, demolition, running forklift, skid steer and so much more.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Much of the construction laborers’ work is very physical. They stand for long periods, bend, stoop, and work in cramped quarters. They may lift heavy objects. Since most work is outdoors or in a partly enclosed structure, construction laborers may endure cold, heat, and bad weather. They may work at extreme heights on scaffolding or in underground tunnels. Some jobs expose workers to chemicals, fumes, odors, loud and prolonged noise, or dangerous machinery. The job often demands eight or more hours of continuous physical labor, and frequent overtime. Teamwork is essential as well as self-discipline when working alone.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
The apprenticeship lasts 3 to 4 years, with 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and approximately 480 hours of classroom training at no out-of-pocket cost to the apprentice.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)

Age: You must be at least 18 years of age.

Education: You must have at least 10th grade education or equivalent (GED)

Physical: You must be able to meet the requirements of the trade, a Construction Craft Laborer preforms such work as: Concrete Placement & Vibration, Power tools, (concrete breakers, jackhammers, chipping guns), Pipe laying, Scaffolding Erection, Mason Tending, Carpenters Tending, Hazardous Waste clean-up, Asbestos Removal and many more physically demanding tasks. Learn more at www.nwlett.org .

Testing: Drug test prior to apprenticeship training.

Other: you must have a current valid Driver’s License and satisfactorily complete the Laborers Pre-Construction Training class.

MASONRY (Bricklaying and Tilesetting)
THE WORK
Bricklayers construct walls, fireplaces, commercial buildings, schools, as well as furnaces, kilns and other structures using brick, block, stone, and marble and granite. Tilesetters install ceramic tile, marble, and granite on a variety of surfaces such as walls, floors, countertops, pools, showers, tubs, and the exterior of buildings. There are also apprenticeships available in the trades of building restoration, caulking, and terrazzo. These are specialized trades with good career potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Bricklayers’ work is usually performed outdoors, with some work done indoors, and in all kinds of weather while Tilesetters generally work indoors. All masonry trades require good physical strength. There is considerable heavy work involving lifting and moving loads with wheelbarrows and by hand. Concrete block weigh more than brick, with 30 pounds being one of the lighter ones, and must be laid with one hand. Tile involves moving boxes of tile as well as carrying pails of mastic, and bags of thinset around the job site from one location to the next. Work sometimes requires travel to include overnight stays. There are periods of no work when the weather is bad or there is no construction going on. Building restoration and caulkers work at great heights and do a wide variety of tasks, frequently hanging off the sides of tall buildings.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
This program, depending upon trade, requires 2000-7000 hours (two to four years) of on-the-job training. Additionally, the apprentice must attend 144-160 hours of classroom instruction per year conducted either during the week or on Saturdays.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)

1. • At least 17 years of age
2. • High school diploma or GED
3. • Read, write and speak English and pass the SLEP test
4. • Able to perform rigorous manual labor of trade and ability to work at heights. May have to pass a standard physical exam
5. • Be able to read and understand basic math, and follow instructions and safety practices. May need to pass the SLEP test
6. • Drivers License
7. • May have to pass a Drug Test

May have to successful complete a 12-week pre-apprenticeship class required for bricklayers.

OPERATING ENGINEERS
Construction Equipment Operator
THE WORK
Operating engineers operate heavy construction equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, pavers, trench excavators and many other kinds of equipment used in constructing buildings, dams, airports and highways. They also work in the sand and gravel, cement and asphalt industries; in the shipyards; on the water with dredges, oil refineries, oil pipelines, sewer and water construction, ports of major cities, municipal work with cities and counties, landscaping, scrap metal work, and the forest products industry. Operating engineer apprentices can also work in the mechanical field as heavy-duty truck and equipment mechanics, welders and in the field of technical engineer (surveyor).
WORKING CONDITIONS
The work is outdoors and can depend on the weather. Bad weather can shut down jobs as generally the machinery is not operated in heavy snow or rain. The average operator works 1,200 to 1,500 hours per year; some get less work, depending upon their job skills. The union hall dispatches operating engineers to jobs unless you are recalled by a former employer, you must go to the job you are called for. Apprentices are sometimes required to commute long distances or to relocate for a few weeks or months to obtain gainful employment. Apprentices must be flexible and adaptable to different environments, job sites and requirements.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
This program requires 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with an additional 160 hours of supplemental classroom training per year.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)

1. • At least 18 years old
2. • High school diploma or GED
3. • Physically able to perform work of the trade
4. • Washington State driver’s license and dependable transportation
5. • Applicants must be able to read, write and speak English
6. • Applicants must be a resident of the geographical area covered by the trade prior to application
7. • Mechanic applicants must have two years of vocational training in the trade or equivalent
8. • Pass a substance abuse test
9. • Successfully complete the pre-employment safety and orientation procedure

PAINTERS AND DECORATORS (and TAPERS)
Drywall Finisher/Sign & Pictorial Painter/Painter-Sandblaster Decorator/Maintenance/Environmental Control Industrial/Marine/Equipment/Auto/Traffic Control, Carpenter-Painters
THE WORK
Painters and decorators prepare and paint a diverse array of surfaces. There are three main areas of the industry: industrial (steel structures like ship tanks and bridges), commercial buildings (everything from small businesses to high skyscrapers), and residential buildings (homes and small apartments). Painters need to be skilled with a wide variety of hand and power tools, depending upon the type of surface preparation and coating required. Drywall finishing is the work of tapers who fill in and smooth seams in sheets of drywall.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is conducted indoors and outdoors at floor level, on ladders, rigging and scaffolding. Painters and decorators use a variety of chemicals and are exposed to fumes from paints and solvents. Workers may have to travel great distances to work sites. There are often periods of unemployment between jobs. Tapers work generally in warm and dry conditions but may work outdoors in cool conditions sometimes.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
This program, depending upon trade, requires 3,000 to 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and an additional 144-465 hours of related classroom instruction per year, which is usually conducted one night per week after work on your own time. Satisfactory progress must be maintained in training classes.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)

1. • At least 17 years old
2. • Prefer high school diploma or GED
3. • Good physical strength and eyesight
4. • Possess own transportation

PLUMBERS, STEAMFITTERS, PIPEFITTERS, AND
REFRIGERATION WORKERS
Housing Plumber, Residential Plumber, Refrigeration Fitter, Refrigeration Mechanic, Maintenance Plumbers/Steamfitters, Marine Pipefitter, HVAC/Refrigeration Mechanic
THE WORK
Plumbers, steamfitters, pipefitters, and refrigeration fitters are all crafts people who install piping systems that carry water, steam, air and other liquids or gases necessary for sanitation, industrial production, heating and air conditioning, and many other uses. They also alter, remodel and repair existing piping systems and install plumbing fixtures, radiators and other heating units, some appliances, as well as refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. Workers measure, cut and bend pipe, weld, braze, caulk, solder, glue or thread joints at residential and commercial job sites.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Plumbers and pipefitters are sometimes required to work in high places or in confined areas. Also, because much of the work is performed outdoors, they are exposed to adverse weather conditions at times. Repair work is often during an emergency and might be in dark, wet and cramped conditions in ditches, under houses and in other difficult situations.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
This program, depending upon trade, requires 4,000-10,000 hours of on-the-job training. Additionally, all apprentices are required to attend 144-1,000 hours related training classes. Some programs schedule these classes in the evening.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)

1. • At least 18 years old
2. • High school diploma
3. • Must have completed one year of algebra and one year of plane geometry and must produce transcript
4. • Math education requirements may be waived if you can show proof of mathematical knowledge
5. • Score high on STAB S61R aptitude test
6. • May need to be a resident of the county for at least one year
7. • Valid Washington State driver’s license

SHEET METAL WORKERS
Industrial Sheet Metal; Industrial Sheet Metal Fabricator; Industrial Sheet Metal Worker/Welder (Maint); Maintenance Sheet Metal Worker/Welder; Marine Sheet Metal Worker; Residential Sheet Metal Worker; Residential Sheet Metal Worker & Serviceman; Sheet Metal; Sheet Metal Installer; Sheet Metal Service Technician; Sheet Metal Test, Adjust and Balance; Sheet Metal Worker; HVAC Service Technician, and Sheet Metal Worker (Manufacturing only)
THE WORK
Sheet metal workers fabricate, install and service heating, venting and air conditioning systems, blowpipe and industrial systems, metal roofing, coping and flashing, stainless steel work for restaurants, kitchens and hospitals. They prepare shop and field drawings manually and with computer programs. They provide HVAC/R service.
THE WORKING CONDITIONS
Sheet metal workers may work in shops doing fabrication or out on construction sites doing installation. You need to be able to work at heights as well as in enclosed spaces and in varying weather conditions.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
This program, depending upon trade, requires 4,000-10,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144-600 hours related classroom instruction.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)

1. • At least 18 years old
2. • High school diploma or GED/equivalent
3. • Able to perform work of the trade
4. • Copy of high school transcript
5. • Valid Washington State driver’s license
6. • Proof of insurance
7. • Complete math test

SPRINKLER FITTERS
THE WORK
Sprinkler fitters are pipefitter specialists in fire protection. They install fire protection systems of all sorts - for every commercial building or risk there is a fire protection system designed for that specific hazard.
WORKING CONDITIONS
This job requires a person with the ability to carry heavy pieces of pipe of various lengths, to climb and work at various heights and to have the manual dexterity to handle the tools of the trade. It is hard work that requires dedicated, intelligent and reliable people who must often travel to different job sites over a seven county area in the performance of their trade.
THE APPRENTICESHIP
This is a five-year program including 10,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours per year classroom training. Apprentices are eligible for upgrade to the next classification and pay bracket every six months.
APPRENTICESHIP ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (not the same for each program, please review the Program Standards for each program for specific requirements)

1. • At least 18 years old
2. • Birth certificate available at time of application
3. • High school graduate, GED or equivalent; show proof of completion or diploma at time of application
4. • Physically fit to do the work of the trade
5. • May have to pass aptitude test and oral examination/interview

Boilermakers Local 242
Bricklayers Local 3
Electrical Workers Local 73
Elevator Constructors Local 19
Heat & Frost Insulators & Allied Workers Local 82
Iron Workers Local 14
Laborers Local 238
Operating Engineers Local 370
Painters & Allied Trades District Council 5
Plasterers & Cement Mason’s Local 72
Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 44
Roofers Local 189
Sheetmetal Workers Local 55
Sprinklerfitters Local 669

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