Wages increase progressively as your skill level increases by learning the trade both in the classroom and working under the guidance of a journey level worker on the job site. After completing an apprenticeship program, your journey level status provides an additional benefit of nationwide mobility at journey level scale. Once you have decided on a trade, apply to the Washington state-approved apprenticeship program in your area offering training in that trade. There may not be immediate openings in that program, and you may need to put your name on a waiting list. Apprenticeship programs usually only bring in new apprentices where there are enough jobs to keep all apprentices working.
Some trades only accept applications at certain times of the year.
Others require that you find a job in the trade before you are accepted into the program. If you would like to serve an apprenticeship in an occupation not listed here, and an employer is willing to hire you as an apprentice, the Regional Apprenticeship Coordinator for your area may be able to assist you in developing an apprenticeship. Apprenticeship is a rewarding but demanding choice which requires determination, commitment, attitude and physical conditioning to succeed. If you choose a career in construction, you will need to stretch your budget in preparation for layoffs because the work is often seasonal. You need to stay in excellent physical shape and remain drug and alcohol free when you are not working.