Detailed information on Wisconsin's Apprenticeship system
Employer Toolkit Booklet
A Guide for Wisconsin Employers
Wisconsin Apprenticeship System Since 1911
Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards
What is Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship is a structured system of training designed to prepare individuals for skilled occupations. It combines on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced journey workers with related classroom instruction. Apprentices who successfully complete the prescribed number of hours of training in an apprenticeship program become certified skilled workers.
A written agreement between the apprentice and the apprenticeship program is registered with the Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards, Department of Workforce Development.
Types of Apprenticeships
Which jobs train using apprenticeship? Explore by selecting a trade area:
Apprenticeship offers several unique benefits: You "earn while you learn" - you
can make a living wage with health insurance, retirement and other benefits
while learning skills in a trade. As your skill level increases by learning the
trade both in the classroom and on the job site, your wages also increase
progressively. After completion of an apprenticeship program, your journey-level
status is recognized nationally.
Journeyworker
Apprenticeship is a rewarding but demanding choice that requires determination, commitment and a good attitude to succeed, but for those who meet the challenges of apprenticeship, the rewards are substantial. A journeyworker typically receives an excellent wage and benefit package anywhere in the United States. He or she
is a highly trained and skilled worker whose qualifications are recognized and respected throughout the industry. Apprenticeship is one of the best ways to acquire work experience and training to establish yourself in a career in the skilled trades.
Benefits for the Employer
The apprenticeship system offers not just a job, but a career. It attracts better applicants and improves employer-employee relationships. During the period of training, employers can instill values such as company loyalty, good work practices, and positive work attitudes. In addition, it ensures training standards of the trade are met while improving training standards in the industry.
When the training is completed and apprentices become fully qualified journey-level employees, they have little trouble fitting into the company because they already have a good grasp of the company's values and work requirements. With the promise of a future, apprentices become valuable, committed employees capable of advancing to more responsible positions within the company.
Special Benefits for Veterans
This year, nearly $2.5M in Veteran's Benefits has been paid to qualified registered apprentices. Registered apprenticeships constitute qualified training for a veteran to receive benefits under Chapter 30, Montgomery GI Bill and Chapter 31, Vocational Rehabilitation (Voc-Rehab). Depending on your branch of service, your survivors may be eligible under Chapter 35, Survivors or Dependents programs. Check with OPI for specifics on these programs. All of these programs pay a monthly stipend directly to the eligible beneficiary.
Did you know that the Veterans in Piping program offers a free 20 week training program
to OIF/OEF Veterans? Successful graduates receive welding and rigging
certifications and qualify as a 2nd year apprentice as a pipefitter. Classes
occur on a regularly scheduled basis.
Successful completion of a registered apprenticeship program in the pipe trades can translate into journeyworker status and a great wage + benefits that averages more than $50 per hour.
