Frequently Asked Questions
What is apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship Training is the combination of on-the-job training and the classroom training. Apprentices will be employed through LU#49 by a contractor and be paid for the work they do, plus receive fringe benefits. Apprentices will also be expected to attend classes at the training center located in Albuquerque, NM during their scheduled weeks.
How long is the apprenticeship program?
Our apprenticeship program is 4 Years, consisting of 8000-OJT (on-the-job training) hours and 800 related instruction hour (in the classroom). Classes are held 5 times a year at the training center located in Albuquerque, NM. Each class is held Monday-Friday starting at 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. Class attendance is mandatory and apprentices may be compensated for attending classes. It is vital for Apprentices to attend class in order to advance and receive their scheduled pay raises.
What jobs are available?
Available jobs include welding, shop layout and fabrication craftsman, HVAC system design and installation technician, computer aided drafting, test and balance technician, HVAC service technician. As experience is gained, supervisory positions may become available.
what if i don't want to work in albuquerque?
Jobs are available across the entire state of New Mexico as well as parts of Western areas of Texas, which include Lubbock, Amarillo, El Paso, and the surrounding areas.
what is the cost of the program?
Apprentices pay no tuition and get to "earn while they learn”.
How much pay do apprentices receive?
The starting wage for a 1st year apprentice under the NM Collective Bargaining Agreement is $17.72/hour, fringe benefits are paid by employers. Wages increase upon successful completion of each semester in the program.
The starting wage for 1st year apprentice under the Lubbock/Amarillo Collective Bargaining Agreement is $13.36/hour, fringe benefits paid by employers. Wages increase upon successful completion of each semester in the program.
The starting wage for 1st year apprentice under the Lubbock/Amarillo Collective Bargaining Agreement is $13.36/hour, fringe benefits paid by employers. Wages increase upon successful completion of each semester in the program.
WHAT IF I LIVE OUT OF TOWN?
Apprenticeship training is available to anyone living in New Mexico or the West Texas panhandle who meet the application requirements .
DO YOU PROVIDE ROOM AND BOARD FOR OUT OF TOWN APPRENTICES?
We do not make reservations or provide a hotel room for you. We do have special rates and arrangements that we will provide you with upon request. You will need to make your own reservations and will be reimbursed if you meet the requirements.
Can I expect steady work as an apprentice?
Employment is dependent on the current demand for employees in the construction industry located in New Mexico and parts of West Texas to include: Lubbock, Amarillo, El Paso and the surrounding areas.
Are Apprentices required to attend classes?
YES. Apprentices are required to attend class 5 times a year for 40 hours a week each time. Failure to attend class will not only prevent apprentices from advancing but can also result in termination from the apprenticeship program.
Who pays for classrom training?
There is no cost to you for classroom training.
how do i gain employment?
After you have successfully completed the apprenticeship application process, you will be placed on our applicant list based on when you completed your application. You will receive a job call from us with an offer of employment once we reach your name on the list. Failure to return the call within the 10-minute grace period, means that you will be passed over and the next applicant will be called out.
whaT ARE THE MINIMUM EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS TO APPLY FOR THE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM?
All applicants for the apprenticeship program are not required to be a high school graduate or have received their GED certificate. However we do encourage you to complete High School or get your GED. If you have a Diploma or GED, you will be asked to provide a copy during the application process.
can i use veterans' benefits for my apprenticeship?
YES. You will need to get the proper paperwork from your VA office. We will verify your apprenticeship with us.
can training and education received during military service or prior work experience be credited towards apprenticeship requirements?
YES. You will need to provide a copy of all applicable certifications and a verification of the hours worked. We will then setup an prior experience skills test for you to take.
what is the minimum age to apply for the apprenticeship program?
All Applicants must be 17 years of age or older.
what is a pre-apprentice?
A Pre-apprentice is an individual who accepts a job call for a pre-apprentice. As a pre-apprentice you will receive a reduced wage rate of $13.89 in NM, rates vary for West Texas.
