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CONSTRUCTION

Apprenticeship

An essential, in-demand industry. 

What is Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship has been a proven pathway to great jobs in Wisconsin since 1911. It combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to provide the skills and knowledge you need to make a great living. With an apprenticeship, you start with a job and build a career.

Apprenticeship is a unique education and training program where you work full time for a company that trains you in the full scope of your trade. In addition, you attend classes (typically at a technical college) to learn the theory and practical knowledge to support your on-the- job training. The best part is you get paid both on the job and to attend classes, and your pay increases as you learn more skills.

If you want to start a well-paying, in-demand career with many opportunities to grow without taking on college debt, apprenticeship may be for you.

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Construction is one of the largest industries in the country and it can never be outsourced to other countries.

01

Find a job

PICK A TRADE

Do you know what you want to do? With construction, there is a plethora of options. From electrical and plumbing to carpentry and HVAC, or a host of others, you can find the trade that best fits you.

GET HIRED

Unlike applying to college, before you start your apprenticeship, you will need to find a job with an ABC of Wisconsin approved trainer. Want an interview? ABC can connect you with multiple employers.

02

Start Your Apprenticeship

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING

Once you start working, everyday on the job is a learning experience. Instead of being stuck in a class for four years, you can learn by doing – all while getting paid!

PAID-RELATED INSTRUCTION

In addition to on-the-job training, all apprentices get to hoan their skills with in-class training. The best part? You get paid to attend these classes as if you were working a regular day on the jobsite.

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTION

Training would not be complete without focusing on things like First Aid, CPR and OSHA regulations that will enhance what you learn in your other classes and on the job.

LIKE TO COMPETE?
Each year, ABC of Wisconsin apprentices test their skills against each other at a state competition. Winners get to take a trip to compete against the best in the country!

03

Completion Certificate

GET RECOGNIZED

Each apprenticeship program lasts three to five years depending on the trade you pick. After you are finished, invite friends and family to watch you walk across the stage at your graduation banquet.

STATE CERTIFIED

The ABC Apprenticeship Program is certified by the state’s Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards. Just like a college degree, you will earn a certification that you can take with you your whole life.

WE ARE ALWAYS HERE
When you complete your apprenticeship, that does not mean your relationship with ABC of Wisconsin ends. We will continue to be here to help. Just ask.

04

Finish With A Career

KEEP BUILDING

Instead of rushing to find a job after graduation, finish your program with the comfort of knowing you have already worked at your employer for years. You are well on your way to building your career!

KEY TO SUCCESS
Numerous executives and company owners at ABC member firms started where you are today. This is just the beginning of a very rewarding career.

CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION

Your Career
The word "Blueprint"

Most people don’t realize apprenticeship is a career area with lots of opportunities. Getting into employment earlier means there’s lots of potential for you to progress quickly in your career. After putting your skills into practice, you could become a master craftsperson and/or land a leadership role at your company, such as foreman, crew leader, jobsite superintendent or project manager. Some apprentices start their own businesses or go back to school for a two-year construction management degree at a technical college and then apply that to a four-year building construction management degree at a university. How far you want to go is all up to you.