Paid trade apprenticeships
Get paid to learn a trade. No college debt, raises as you progress, and a journeyman card at the end.
Apprenticeships by trade
- Electrician — 4–5 year apprenticeship (IBEW/JATC, IEC, ABC) or trade school plus on-the-job hours.
- Plumber — 4–5 year apprenticeship (UA union or merit shop) or trade school plus supervised hours.
- HVAC Technician — 6–12 month trade school or 3–5 year apprenticeship.
- Lineman — Lineworker pre-apprenticeship school followed by a 3–4 year utility or contractor apprenticeship.
- Pipefitter — 5-year UA apprenticeship or industrial contractor training program.
- Carpenter — 4-year apprenticeship (UBC union or ABC/HBI) or on-the-job training.
- Elevator Mechanic — 4-year apprenticeship, typically through IUEC/NEIEP.
- Ironworker — 3–4 year Ironworkers union apprenticeship.
- Sheet Metal Worker — 4–5 year SMART union or merit-shop apprenticeship.
- Welder — 6–18 month welding school or apprenticeship; certifications drive pay.
Apprenticeship FAQ
What is a trade apprenticeship?
A paid job where you learn a trade on the job under a journeyworker while taking related classroom training. Most last 3–5 years and end with a nationally recognized credential.
Do apprentices get paid?
Yes. Apprentices earn a wage from day one — usually 40–60% of journeyman pay — with raises as they complete hours and classes.
Do I need experience to start an apprenticeship?
No. Most programs require a high school diploma or GED, a driver's license, basic math and the ability to pass a drug screen.
Union vs. non-union apprenticeships?
Union (JATC) programs are run jointly by a trade union and contractors and often include pension benefits. Non-union programs are run by employers or associations such as ABC and IEC. Both lead to journeyman status.