Because truck-driving represents an important part of a sign installer's daily work, the union teaches apprentices how to drive crane trucks and perform basic vehicle maintenance. In Local 137, this means preparing apprentices to receive their New York State Chauffer's License, a requirement for driving commercial vehicles on state highways. Because a majority of sign companies requires job applicants to possess commercial driver's licenses, the union prepares workers to start sign-industry jobs in the initial stage of their training. The union also requires apprentices to obtain any additional local licenses required to operate cranes, use torches or perform welding. Metalworking instruction includes hands-on experience fabricating sign cabinets, channel letters and other custom metal forms.
Apprentices learn about various types of signs, as well as their corresponding installation methods.
Training includes special instruction in fabricating and installing steel roof structures that support large signs, billboards and spectaculars like those in Times Square. Apprentices also learn to read construction blueprints. Additionally, electrical training teaches apprentices the fundamentals of fluorescent and neon lighting systems. Training in safe crane operation and load-rigging represents an important advantage for union workers. Novice sign installers sometimes cause catastrophes when they operate cranes without prior instruction or fail to properly rig loads for hoisting.