What is an Apprentice?

An apprentice is someone who learns on-the-job training from a master or “Journeyman”
tradesman. An apprenticeship is a system for training a new generation of practitioners of a
trade or profession with on-the-job training and accompanyinB study (classroom work and
reading). Most of their training is done while working for an employer who helps the
apprentices learn their trade or profession, in exchange for their continued labor for an agreed
period after they have achieved measurable competencies. Apprenticeship lengths vary
significantly across sectors, professions, roles, and cultures. ln some cases, people who
successfully complete an apprenticeship can reach the “.journeyman” or professional
certification level of competence.

Because you are working and learning at the same time, apprentices are considered full-time
employees. Wages are paid to you during the on-the-job phase of training. Wages increase as
progress is made in the program.

A Department of Labor registered apprenticeship requires a signed, written agreement
(indenture) between the program and apprentice. You agree to perform the work faithfully with
diligence and to complete the related course study. A contractor agrees to make every effort to
keep you employed and to comply with the standards established for the program. This legal
contract ensures quality training on-the-job, in the classroom, and leads to a certificate of
completion and journeyman lineman status.