Apprentices play an important role in today’s construction workforce. In a time when employers are facing complex workforce challenges and a highly competitive market, apprentices bring hard work and talent to the job site for the duration of the apprenticeship. Not only that, apprentice programs help employers increase overall employee retention with workers that know the ins and outs of their operations. Take it from Tom Haun*, who is quoted on apprenticeship.gov saying:
“The Insulators and our signatory contractors value having the most highly trained, competitive and diverse workforce possible, and we’ve seen that Registered Apprenticeship is the best way we have of achieving that goal. That’s why we, and the other NABTU affiliates, invest over $1.5 billion annually in training every year. Year after year, we see the return on that investment as thousands of apprentices across the skilled trades complete their training and go on to become the safest, most highly trained construction workers in the world.”
The U.S. Department of Labor has indicated a few apprentice positions that are in even higher demand than others this year. Two of which align well with today’s most in-demand construction careers: carpenter and electrician. In addition, they call out these four apprenticeships:
In this role, workers build structures like walls, fireplaces and chimneys with brick, block and other masonry materials.
These skilled laborers install and repair elevators, as well as escalators, dumbwaiters, moving walkways and other types of moving equipment.
Plumbers take care of pipe systems for sanitation, storm water, and industrial systems that move gases, water and liquids, from initial installation to ongoing repairs to necessary alterations.
Similar to plumbers, pipefitters assemble, install and maintain pipes, focusing on systems that move liquids, gases, and more for manufacturing, heating and cooling purposes.
These are just a few of the most in-demand apprenticeships predicted for this year. By choosing one of these positions, you will be able to begin your construction industry journey sooner.
If any of these roles sound like they would be a great fit for you and your interests, now is the time to find an apprenticeship near you. Many Ohio businesses are actively hiring apprentices for positions like these.
Not sure where to find your dream apprenticeship? We have an entire page dedicated to helping people like you find the right program. This page includes an interactive map that highlights apprenticeship programs in your region. No matter who you work for, you’ll get quality on-the-job training that will prepare you for a successful construction career.
If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
*Tom Haun is the Training Director, International Association of Heat and Frost Workers Chair, Apprenticeship and Training Committee, North America’s Building Trades Unions
