Frequently Asked Questions
Get your answers here!
Am I eligible for an apprenticeship?
What happens in the application process?
Are there different types of apprenticeship?
How long does an Apprenticeship take?
How do Apprenticeships work?
What sort of person is accepted on an Apprenticeship?
How do I get started on an apprenticeship?
What Happens Once I Finish My Apprenticeship?
What can you do afterwards?
Contact Us!
Am I eligible for an apprenticeship?
Applicants must be at least eighteen (18) years of age. You must possess sufficient educational knowledge to satisfactorily complete the on-the-job training and related technical instruction. A high school diploma or GED is required. However, a GED may be acquired while completing your apprenticeship.
What happens in the application process?
There are two ways to apply for an apprenticeship. You can approach an employer who takes on apprentices and see if they are willing to give you a job. You can also apply through the Finishing Trades Institute Apprenticeship, who will put you in touch with a training director in your area who will then try to match you with an employer.
The selection process is just like any other job application process. You could be put through interviews and even asked to take tests to see if you're the right person. This process can be carried out by both the JATC and employer, so you need to be prepared to sell yourself and convince others that an apprenticeship is for you. After all, there's no such thing as an automatic place; employers can refuse to take you on if they don't think you're right for the job.
Are there different types of apprenticeship?
Yes, there are Watch this presentation available. Which apprenticeship is right for you will depend on your interest, experience and the available opportunities in your area. However, all apprenticeships include the following basic elements:
- Key skills; such as working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology.
- Other qualifications or requirements as specified by the particular occupation.
- Apprenticeships can also be a stepping-stone to a higher degree from a university.
How long does an Apprenticeship take?
There is no set time to complete an apprenticeship as they vary widely in content and size. An average apprenticeship will usually take anything from 24 to 36 months.
How do Apprenticeships work?
Your employer pays your wages and gives you on-the-job training which allows you to achieve qualifications. You'll also spend time with the union trainers with whom you’ll gain key skills that'll be useful in the job market – such as working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology. In addition, you may study for a technical certificate, which will give you further knowledge and understanding of your job. The amount of time you'll spend studying varies; it can be anything from 288 to 576 hours over the course of your apprenticeship, depending on your chosen profession.
What sort of person is accepted on an Apprenticeship?
Applicants need to be:
- Serious
- Committed
- Able to show that you have fully researched the area of work you want to do, and you're the right person for the job
- Aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you
- Prepared for further study
- Realistic about the amount of work you may have to do
- Happy to work as both part of a team and an individual.
- Able to use your own initiative
Apprenticeships can be demanding, but very rewarding. It's not just a question of seeing what is out there and then selecting a career path. It helps if you are focused enough to know what you want to do before you apply. If you're the right person for an Apprenticeship, being an apprentice can help you achieve your goals. It's a great opportunity, but may not be suitable for everyone. Do you have what it takes to be an apprentice?
How do I get started on an apprenticeship?
You'll need to think carefully about the field of work in which you want to train. You must complete your apprenticeship to get the qualifications, so you need to make sure that you're serious about your chosen career and can commit yourself to what is usually a long period of training and study.
To find out what apprenticeships are available in your area, call 1-800-276-7289. Or click HERE to sign-up electronically. You'll then receive more information about the opportunities available to you.
What Happens Once I Finish My Apprenticeship?
A New Beginning -
What you learn in your apprenticeship or technical courses will vary, but you'll always end up gaining the following:
- Practical experience, skills and knowledge from working in your chosen type of employment
- An Apprenticeship Completion Certificate recognized by the Department of Labor
- Key skills, such as working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology
- Any extra qualifications or requirements that are important for your chosen occupation.
What can you do afterwards?
When you complete an apprenticeship, you’ll be able to show an employer that you have skills, qualifications and dedication. There’s also the opportunity to progress on to higher education, either part time or full time with your employer's help and support. All things which give you an edge in the job market.
It should increase your chances of getting a good rate of pay, and of getting promoted. In the long term, you may decide to take things further and go for further studies, such as a Diploma or a Degree.
Contact Us!
Now that you know a little more about an apprenticeship with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, why not get in touch? You can call us at 1-800-276-7289 or sign up electronically by clicking HERE.
