Finding the right job can be tough, and the options can be confusing. But what if there were an option that enabled you to earn while you learn? An option that gave you qualifications that could lead to a lifelong career in the construction industry?
Construction is one of the few industries where you can start at ground level and work your way to the top, where you get paid as you learn a skill, and where you can get a good job just about anywhere you go.
Why go into Construction?While growing up many of us are told by parents, teachers, and the media that the only way to make a good living is from behind a desk, which simply is not true. Many careers are built around hands-on work and the construction industry is huge; there are millions of employees in the field, and new projects are going up all over the valley every day. Almost half a million Americans around the country go into apprenticeships in construction every year.
What is Apprenticeship?Apprenticeship is a proven industry-based learning system that combines on-the-job experience with technical training to provide a certified journey person. An apprentice is a worker who learns a craft through planned, supervised On-the-Job-Learning (OJL) in conjunction with receiving planned, related technical instruction in a classroom setting. They are taught the proper use, care and safe handling of tools and equipment used in their work.
Why Choose the Arizona Builders Alliance (ABA) Apprenticeship Program?The ABA provides formal apprenticeship training in many programs that are registered and approved by:
In the ABA Program you earn while you learn. When you begin your apprenticeship, the starting wage is generally about 50% of the journeyman rate and increases about every six months as you satisfactorily progress in the program. Near the end of training, an apprentice is performing as a skilled craft worker and is earning about 95% of the journeyman wage. As you continue in your career, your rate of pay increases with your knowledge and abilities.
The ABA’s members consist of about 95% of all general contractors in the state and look to our programs first when in need of motivated and skilled workers.
What does the ABA Apprenticeship offer?Upon successful completion, apprentices are recognized at the journey-level in their trade and are awarded their Journeyman certificates as well as other Nationally recognized and portable credentials.
Is there Advance Placement? If you have participated in another program we will place you where you left off or if you have been in the trade you are enrolled for more than 4 years testing is available.
Many people who complete their apprenticeships move up after a time as journeymen into supervisory positions in the field. In addition, some go on to become managers or even business owners
Like any other professional career, apprenticeship training can be demanding as well as highly rewarding. Apprenticeship is no snap!! If someone is looking for a soft touch, apprenticeship isn’t it. It demands hard work and has tough competition. An apprentice must have the will to see the program through. It takes ambition. It takes drive. It takes courage. It takes patience. With motivation, hard work and a willingness to meet the requirements for the successful completion of the program, both the apprentice and the employer can share in the benefits of this training.