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. Pay is gradually increased over the length of the apprenticeship, until training is completed and the trainee graduates to full trade person status. IDES can help you get started . There, you can obtain detailed information about apprenticeships. Staff will help you decide which trade would best suit you, and can tell you about entrance requirements and when apprenticeship programs are accepting applications.