UA Local 375 Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship Training

Q. How much does the apprenticeship cost?

A. The JATC covers the cost of training for each apprentice. However, an apprentice will not get paid while attending school and will need to plan ahead financially for the times he/she is scheduled to attend class. In addition, apprentices will also be expected to pay for their classroom materials such as books and a few certification fees.

Q. What are the benefits?

A. As part of this organization, you would be eligible for a benefit package to include:

• Health coverage for you and your family.
• Participation in three retirement plans allowing for a secure and comfortable retirement.
• Ability to work in member local unions across the United States helping them to meet the demand for qualified skilled workers in their area.

Q. What does a plumber or pipefitter do?

A. Installs piping and equipment for heating systems, water and waste piping in residential and commercial applications. Piping installations in refineries, medical gas, process facilities and the construction of oil and gas pipelines. They must be able to repair and maintain the piping systems installed and work to the highest industry standard and codes.

Q. Can I choose to study only plumbing or pipefitting?

A. Our apprenticeship is a hybrid program; therefore, we do our best to train apprentices in both careers to become as well-rounded as possible. Once you complete the apprenticeship you can choose jobs in the trade you prefer.

Q. How long will the apprenticeship take?

A. Our program is full-time, five years. This gives apprentices enough time to accumulate 8,500+ hours of on-the-job-training and at least 250 hours of yearly classroom instruction.

Q. How do I find a job?

A. Local 375 will place apprentices with employers. The goal is to give each apprentice a broad area of work experience within the trade and to keep everyone employed for as much of the year as possible.

Q. When will I know if I’m accepted?

A. Apprenticeship positions will be filled as they become available. Applicants with the highest interview scores will be notified to fill these positions. Those given the opportunity to attend school first will normally have at least a month’s notification. However, those called to fill work positions will generally be given short notice.

Q. When can I apply?

A. Anytime! We take applications continuously and interview quarterly.

Q. What if I only want to weld?

A. We have a state-of-the-art welding facility available to our members. While there are often opportunities to learn welding in the apprenticeship, we don’t offer a welding-only option.

Q. How much money will I make?

A. A beginning apprentice will earn 50% of journeyman’s wage, as set in the current Agreement. Every year of successful completion of the apprenticeship you will earn a 5% - 10% wage increase.