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FAQ - Applicant (Page 1 of 2)

The following questions are frequently asked by applicants. There are a total of 14 questions; seven questions on this page and seven more questions on next page.   

1. What is apprenticeship training?
2. What are the advantages to me of an apprenticeship?
3. How do I get to be an apprentice?  How do I apply?
4. What are the requirements to get into an apprenticeship?  What qualifications do I need to become an apprentice?
5. Is there a waiting period before I can enter an apprenticeship?
6. What types of occupations are available?
7. Do you help me find a job?

 

1. What is apprenticeship training?

Apprenticeship is a training program that combines structured on-the-job training with related instruction. It is sponsored by employers, employer associations, or labor/management groups that can hire and train in a working situation. The employment opportunity is the most basic requirement for an apprenticeship. Without a job there is no "on-the-job" training", and such training represents about 90% of the program.

2. What are the advantages to me of an apprenticeship?

• Apprenticeship is a career opportunity.

• It is occupational training that combines supervised on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

• Apprentices learn a skilled trade while earning a good wage and receive pay increases as they learn and perform more complex tasks.

• When apprentices complete the program and become journeyworkers, they increase their employability in industry and may become supervisors or go into business for themselves.

• These skills are transferable from one employer to another and usually from one part of the country to another.

• Once completed, an apprentice will receive a portable credential which is nationally recognized.

3. How do I get to be an apprentice?  How do I apply?

Application procedures vary from trade to trade, geographically, and in the construction, industrial (manufacturing) or service sectors.

For construction trades, the application process is generally governed by a trade committee composed of equal representation of employees and employers in that trade. Each committee develops its own policies and practices, which are approved by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards. Applications are taken by the local committees and may include an aptitude test, interview with the committee, high school transcript, proof of graduation or equivalent, birth certificate, valid drivers license, and passing a substance abuse test. The interested applicant should apply directly to the committee or trade organization for further direction.

Applying for an apprenticeship in the industrial and service sectors requires applying directly to the employer or company that sponsors the apprenticeship program. Sometimes you must be hired by the employer in another capacity before apprenticeship opportunities become available. The employer determines the criteria to place applicants into the program, either through collective bargaining agreements or other criteria.

4. What are the requirements to get into an apprenticeship? What qualifications do I need to become an apprentice?

Getting into an apprenticeship program requires both physical and mental readiness. Most trades require that applicants are high school graduates or equivalent. Many of the trades require a strong math background in such areas as Algebra and Geometry. In addition, some employers require that apprentices have technical training (such as a technical college degree or certificate) before entering an apprenticeship program. Written tests are often used as part of the application process and these may cover areas such as; math, reading, science, spatial ability, manual dexterity and other areas relevant to the trade or occupation.

5. Is there a waiting period before I can enter an apprenticeship?

The waiting period to get into the program varies from trade to trade and whether employers have current openings. Once eligible for the program, applicants may wait several weeks or over a year depending on current economic conditions and employment opportunities.

6. What types of occupations are available?

Apprenticeships are offered in a wide variety of trades and/or occupations. The three main occupational categories are Industrial, Service, and Construction. 

7. Do you help me find a job?

No. The Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards does not serve as an employment agency.

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 Updated May 10, 2007
 Content Contact: Apprenticeship & Training Representatives