What is an apprenticeship?
The apprenticeship program is a structured training designed to prepare individuals for occupations in the plumbing, pipefitting, welding, and air conditioning trades. It combines on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced journey workers with related classroom instruction, all while the apprentice earns a full-time wage.
Apprenticeship is a tried and true method for teaching someone a skilled trade. Plus, you earn while you learn.
What to expect.
Individuals interested in an apprenticeship must apply in person. Once they have applied, we will begin looking for a job for the apprentice. For more information on how to apply, please visit our How to Apply page.
In order to attend the classroom instruction an applicant must go through an interview with the Joint Apprenticeship Committee. An applicant cannot attend courses if the interview is missed.
An applicant will be notified by mail if they were selected or not. Upon selection, applicants will begin class the following September. If an applicant is not selected, they are placed in a pool of applicants and could be selected during the next interview period. Accepted or not, an applicant can continue to work on the job they are on.
Classes begin each September. Currently there are classes three nights a week and a student can expect to be at the school two of those three nights. Attendance is mandatory to maintain wage advancement. The program is a 5-year program in which the apprentice will receive a raise every six months if they have completed the attendance and work experience requirements.
What are classes like?
We provide a mixture of classroom and shop classes to expose apprentices to many different situations and materials they may face on the job. In today’s fast paced construction environment the journeyman they are working with may not have the time necessary to explain in depth why they are doing what they are doing, that’s where we come in.
We have the ability to explain all of the different materials, processes, tools and techniques in a controlled, friendly, educational environment where our only goal is for apprentices to learn and succeed.
As an apprentice goes through the program they have the opportunity to receive numerous certifications as well as any required OSHA training. We have test prep courses for state plumbing licenses as well as adequate space and instruction to take any of the many UA Weld Certification tests.
What is this cost for the apprenticeship?
There is zero out of pocket cost to the apprentice for the classroom related instructions. Waco JATC is funded by contributions from employers on behalf of the apprentice as part of the CBA mandated wage package. All material, books, tools and instruction are paid for from those contributions.
Please note, not all apprentice programs are set up this way, some have book fees or supply fees, however, at this time Waco JATC does not
