You’ve heard about a career in the building trades and know that it’s an exceptional choice, offering great pay, incredible benefits, and almost limitless opportunities. You’re sold (and why wouldn’t you be?).
The only question that remains: how do you get started?
How to Get Started in the Building Trades
The best way into a construction trade is through a registered apprenticeship program. Apprenticeships provide education both in the classroom and through real, hands-on experience from on-the-job training alongside seasoned professionals in their respective trades.
Not only do apprenticeships offer a comprehensive education with no prior experience necessary, apprentices are also considered full-time employees, and employment comes with a paycheck. That’s right! During your apprenticeship, you’ll earn while you learn.
What is Required to Apply for an Apprenticeship?
As you might expect, apprenticeship requirements vary across the trades. Sometimes requirements even vary within a trade depending on the region you’re in or the specialization you’re pursuing. In general, most apprenticeship programs require that you:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time your apprenticeship begins
- Have a high school diploma or GED
Some apprenticeship programs also require you to pass a drug test, background check, and aptitude test, and others require that you have successfully completed certain math classes, such as algebra.
How to Apply for an Apprenticeship
While each trade has a slightly different process, applying for an apprenticeship isn’t much different from applying for any other job. After finding the registered apprenticeship program you want to apply to, you’ll likely be asked to fill out an application and submit a resume as part of your application. Then, depending on the apprenticeship program, you may be asked to interview with the program or employer after they review your application.
Remember, not everyone gets accepted. In some parts of the country, apprenticeships are quite competitive. And no wonder, who wouldn’t want a chance to get a low-cost, world-class education and paid work?
Ready to get started? Learn more about the trades and request more information about specific apprenticeship programs. Once you’ve been accepted into the apprenticeship program, you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding and fulfilling career. A career you can be proud of.
