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Apprenticeships offer a great opportunity for workers to learn a skilled trade while getting paid for on-the-job training. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that from 2013 to 2018 the number of apprenticeships has grown 56% from 375,000 to 585,000. Additionally, over 10,000 new programs were created in the last five years. Apprenticeships in the skilled trades lead to rewarding and well-paying careers across many occupations. Here are the seven fastest growing occupations that begin with an apprenticeship. Numbers for wages, job growth, and top paying states are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

1. Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

Average annual wage (2018): $53,910

Anticipated job growth (2018-2028): 14%

Apprenticeship length: 4 to 5 years

Top paying states: Illinois, Alaska, Minnesota

Although most plumbers learn on-the-job through apprenticeships, others begin by attending a trade school. Apprentices can expect up to 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training per year as well as some classroom instruction. Class work typically includes local plumbing codes and regulations, blueprint reading, mathematics, applied physics, and chemistry.

After completing an apprenticeship, plumbers are considered journey workers and are qualified to perform work on their own. With enough experience, plumbers may pass an exam and earn a master status. The demand for plumbers is higher than average and is driven by new construction and building maintenance. Overall job outlook for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is extremely positive.

2. Ironworkers

Average annual wage (2018): $52,770

Anticipated job growth (2018-2028): 14%

Apprenticeship length: 3 to 4 years

Top paying states: Illinois, Oregon, New Jersey, New York

Ironworkers construct and reinforce the iron and steel components of buildings, bridges, roads, and other structures. Apprentices must have at least 144 hours of technical instruction and 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training per year. Apprentices must learn to use the tools of the trade; how to handle, measure, cut, and lay rebar; and construct metal frameworks. They must also learn blueprint reading and sketching, general construction techniques, safety practices, and first aid.

Ironworkers who complete their apprenticeships become journey-level workers and may perform tasks without direct supervision. Additional certifications in welding, rigging, and crane signaling may make ironworkers more attractive to prospective employers. After gaining experience ironworkers may advance to a supervisor or manager. New construction projects and the maintenance of older roads and bridges will drive employment growth for ironworkers.

3. Masonry Workers

Average annual wage (2018): $44,810

Anticipated job growth (2018-2028): 11%

Apprenticeship length: 3 to 4 years

Top paying states: New York, Illinois, New Jersey, Hawaii, Nevada, Wyoming, California

Masonry workers include: brick masons, block masons, cement masons, concrete finishers, and stonemasons. Many technical schools offer masonry programs and often in conjunction with apprenticeship programs. Apprentices learn construction basics, blueprint reading, mathematics, building code requirements, safety, and first-aid.
After completing the programs, apprentices become journey workers and may do tasks on their own. Employment of masonry workers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Population growth will result in the construction of more schools, hospitals, homes, and other buildings. Masons with experience in construction are predicted to have the best job opportunities.

4. Glaziers

Average annual wage (2018): $43,550

Anticipated job growth (2018-2028): 11%

Apprenticeship length: 4 years

Top paying states: Hawaii, New Jersey, Illinois

Glaziers install glass in windows, skylights, and other fixtures in storefronts and buildings. Ranging from large-scale construction sites to in-home projects, glazier apprentices learn to handle, measure, cut, and install glass and metal framing; cut and fit moldings; and install glass doors. Technical training includes learning different installation techniques, as well as basic mathematics, blueprint reading and sketching, general construction techniques, safety practices, and first aid. After completing an apprenticeship, glaziers become journey workers who then do tasks on their own. Job outlook is positive due to the overall growth in construction industries.

5. Elevator Installers and Repairers

Average annual wage (2018): $79,780

Anticipated job growth (2018-2028): 10%

Apprenticeship length: 4 years

Top paying states: Nevada, Washington, Massachusetts

Elevator installers and repairers install, fix, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lifts. Each year, apprentices must complete 144 hours of technical instruction and 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training. Apprentices learn blueprint reading, mathematics, applied physics, electrical and digital theory, hydraulics, and electronics. After completing an apprenticeship program, workers are fully trained and may become mechanics or assist mechanics. Ongoing training is important for elevator installers and repairers since they must keep up with technological development throughout their careers.

6. Electricians

Average annual wage (2018): $55,190

Anticipated job growth (2018-2028): 10%

Apprenticeship length: 4 to 5 years

Top paying states: New York, Alaska, District of Columbia

While most start out with an apprenticeship, other electricians begin by attending a trade school. Employment is expected to grow 10% within the next 10 years (which is faster than average). Apprentices typically receive 2000 hours of paid on-the-job training as well as technical instruction. This instruction includes electrical theory, blueprint reading, mathematics, electrical code requirements, and safety and first-aid practices. Electricians may also receive specialized training related to soldering, communications, fire alarm systems, and elevators.

Some electrical contractors have their own training programs, which are not recognized apprenticeship programs, but include both technical and on-the-job training. After apprenticeship, electrical workers are considered journey workers and may perform duties on their own, subject to local or state licensing requirements.

7. Carpenters

Average annual wage (2018): $46,590

Anticipated job growth (2018-2028): 8%

Apprenticeship length: 3 to 4 years

Top paying states: Hawaii, Illinois, Alaska

A versatile occupation in the construction industry, carpenters work in many types of projects both indoors and outdoors. Apprentices begin by learning simpler tasks under the guidance of a more experienced carpenter. They learn the proper use of hand and power tools as well as blueprint reading, building code requirements, and mathematics. In a typical program, apprentices must complete 144 hours of technical instruction and 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training. Increased levels of home building and remodeling is expected to drive demand for carpenters.

Close the Skills Gap with Apprenticeships!

Apprenticeships are an effective way to educate and train skilled workers. Given the current skills gap and the ever-increasing demand for skilled workers, this is the perfect opportunity for workers looking to start careers or change careers. NBS offers over 130 skills assessments and pre-employment tests designed to help workers succeed in their occupations. We are committed to closing the skills gap and to giving workers the training and knowledge for a safer, more proficient workforce.