An apprentice is a paid worker who is enrolled in a special training program administered by an employer together with a labor organization or trade association. Most apprentices work in trades related to construction.
Apprenticeship is a formal method of training in a skilled occupation, craft, or trade.
The U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training establishes guidelines, procedures, and standards and assists employers in the development of apprenticeship programs. During the next 10 to 15 years, the number of construction-related jobs in Illinois is expected to grow at a very healthy pace. The greatest growth will occur in electrical work, masonry and stonework, plastering, and other specialties. Most apprenticeships take three to five years to complete. Apprentices earn about half the going tradeperson's wage to start.