Our series on apprenticeships for Economic Development Week highlights the correlation between business, education, jobs, and the economy. All of these contribute to a healthy economy, which we are dedicated to strengthening through the attraction and retention of local businesses, enriching our local workforce, and promoting the area’s amenities. This week, we are focusing on apprenticeships to highlight an amazing career opportunity at companies that are right here in Lenawee County.
Build A Successful Future with An Apprenticeship
Though lumber prices have soared in 2021, it has not affected construction projects or the need for skilled tradespeople. As with the production of a movie, it takes a variety of people with specific skills to complete a complicated construction project, many skilled trades have an apprenticeship associated with them.
“Almost all of the trades in the construction industry have an apprenticeship program of some sort, including the general laborer’s,” said Jason Hess, President of Krieghoff-Lenawee. “They vary in terms depending on the trade and the level of skill that needs to be taught and learned.”
There are some different ways to enter an apprenticeship program in the trades depending on the requirements, but it could include being sponsored by a company or going through an application process. Successful completion of the apprenticeship program results in a Journeyman’s card, which is a national certification.
“I am not aware of any apprenticeship program in the industry that a student must pay for themselves. Either the union or the employers cover the cost of an apprenticeship,” shared Hess.
Apprentices and journeymen in the construction industry work on commercial projects like schools, industrial facilities, and historical restoration projects. The most successful people in the skilled trades take pride in their work, enjoy working with their hands, are self-motivated and driven, and are mechanically minded.
“We’re seeing an increased interest in the skilled trades from students and teachers who see that this is a great career opportunity for the right kind of person,” said Hess. “Plenty of skilled trades are making $60,000 to $100,000 per year, and some of them more than that, with zero debt from student loans.”
For a local person, the best thing to do is reach out to contractors in your desired trade. Most contractors are more than willing to help people out. So, even if they aren’t hiring, ask how to get the apprenticeship or how to get started.
To learn more about apprenticeships, visit Apprenticeship.gov.