Apprenticeship Resources
Post Graduation Apprenticeship / Union Resources
| Construction Related Apprenticeship Programs Near Mendocino County |
Apprentice Programs information may be found at www.calapprenticeship.org. The information related to apprenticeships below was taken from this site.
Salary information was taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics website
Be aware that most apprenticeships require that you be 18 years of age or older prior to applying for the program.
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
Description: As an apprentice, you will work for a contractor. This training prepares you to maintain and repair commercial and industrial refrigeration, and air conditioning units.
Description: As an apprentice, you will work for a contractor. This training prepares you to maintain and repair commercial and industrial refrigeration, and air conditioning units.
Salary Potential: $70
Length of program: This is a five year program which requires 8,000 work hours along with 216 hours of instruction yearly. Cohorts are formed every two years (on even years).
Cost of Program: No cost
Prerequisites:
Length of program: This is a five year program which requires 8,000 work hours along with 216 hours of instruction yearly. Cohorts are formed every two years (on even years).
Cost of Program: No cost
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Possess a high school diploma.
- Be Physically able to perform the work.
- Take and pass an aptitude test (70%). followed by an interview.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Be prepared to attend 2 evening classes during the week.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Be able to present paperwork supporting legal right to work in California.
Training Agency: Union 342, Concord. Joint Apprentice Training Program, San Francisco
Auto Paint, and Auto Body Technicians
Description: Auto Technicians do the necessary work to return automobiles to their original condition.
Salary Potential:
Length of program: 4 year apprenticeship - 8000 hours on the job along with 144 hours of community college classes.
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
Description: Auto Technicians do the necessary work to return automobiles to their original condition.
Salary Potential:
Length of program: 4 year apprenticeship - 8000 hours on the job along with 144 hours of community college classes.
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
- 17 years of age with parental permission
- Good physical condition and able to see colors
- High School diploma or GED
- Valid CA drivers license
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
Training Agency:
Carpenter and Lather Locals (Drywall)
Description: This program prepares individuals carpenters to construct buildings of wood, steel, and concrete.
Salary Potential: Apprentice $27.84, Journeyman $45, increases $2 every June
Length of program: 6 weeks of class if no sponsor. 4 weeks of schooling per year, for 4 years, along with 4,800 work hours
Cost of Program: No cost. Pay union dues.
Prerequisites:
Description: This program prepares individuals carpenters to construct buildings of wood, steel, and concrete.
Salary Potential: Apprentice $27.84, Journeyman $45, increases $2 every June
Length of program: 6 weeks of class if no sponsor. 4 weeks of schooling per year, for 4 years, along with 4,800 work hours
Cost of Program: No cost. Pay union dues.
Prerequisites:
- 17 years of age with parental permission, 18 years of age otherwise.
- High School diploma or GED.
- Valid CA drivers license.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Must complete all forms and provide evidence of legal employable status in the California.
Training Agency: Carpenters Training Committee
Communications Technicians
Description: Communications Technicians install cable systems, and maintain and repair residential and commercial cabling installations (such as telephone, computer and television services).
Salary Potential:
Length of program: 3 year program. On the job training, and related course work which will prepare you for the BICSI certification test.
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
Communications Technicians
Description: Communications Technicians install cable systems, and maintain and repair residential and commercial cabling installations (such as telephone, computer and television services).
Salary Potential:
Length of program: 3 year program. On the job training, and related course work which will prepare you for the BICSI certification test.
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
- Must work for a union shop first.
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Possess a high school diploma.
- Be physically able to perform the work.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Be able to present paperwork supporting legal right to work in California.
- Purchase tools and equipment (approximate est. cost of $250.00)
Training Agency: CWA Joint Apprenticeship Program
Concrete and Masons Union
Description: This program is for individuals who are interested in finishing sidewalks, curbs and gutters, floors slabs, as well as repairing concrete.
Salary Potential: $33.49/hour plus insurance and benefits Journeyman
Length of program: 3 year program - 4200 hours on the job and 432 related training hours.
Cost of Program: No Cost. Must be sponsored by a contractor first.
Prerequisites:
Description: This program is for individuals who are interested in finishing sidewalks, curbs and gutters, floors slabs, as well as repairing concrete.
Salary Potential: $33.49/hour plus insurance and benefits Journeyman
Length of program: 3 year program - 4200 hours on the job and 432 related training hours.
Cost of Program: No Cost. Must be sponsored by a contractor first.
Prerequisites:
- 18 years of age.
- Good physical health and physically able to carry out work
Training Agency: Cement Masons
Electrician
Description: Electrical Apprentices install and maintain various wiring methods for distributing electrical light, heat, power, and signaling systems for old and new construction. The work is done in commercial, residential buildings, as well as traffic signals and exterior lighting applications.
Salary Potential:
Description: Electrical Apprentices install and maintain various wiring methods for distributing electrical light, heat, power, and signaling systems for old and new construction. The work is done in commercial, residential buildings, as well as traffic signals and exterior lighting applications.
Salary Potential:
- Residential - $15.50 starting, $31 journeyman
- Inside - $20.16 starting, $48.40 journeyman
- Sound Communication - $37.22 Journeyman
Length of program: This apprenticeship requires you to work 8000 hours on the job over 5 years, and attend 800 class hours over the same 5 year period.
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Possess a high school diploma.
- Be Physically able to perform the work.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Be able to present paperwork supporting legal right to work in California.
- Must have one full year (2 semesters) of college algebra with a “C” or better, or the equivalent.
- Must pass an aptitude test prior to entry to the program. The top scorers get a spot.
- Must be drug free.
Training Agency: National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)
Ironworker
Description: Iron workers erect steel skeletons of buildings, install rebar and repair components of heavy equipment by welding them. Much of the work is done at great heights, is strenuous and in performed in adverse weather conditions.
Ironworker
Description: Iron workers erect steel skeletons of buildings, install rebar and repair components of heavy equipment by welding them. Much of the work is done at great heights, is strenuous and in performed in adverse weather conditions.
Salary Potential: $22.75 starting, $41.75/hour upon completion
Length of program: This apprenticeship will last a minimum of 480 hours of classroom instruction along with 6,000 hours of on the job training.
Cost of Program: No cost. Pay union fees.
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Possess a high school diploma.
- Be physically able to perform the work.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Be able to present paperwork supporting legal right to work in California.
- Applicant must be willing to work at great heights.
- Take HS diploma, Social Security and State issued identification when applying.
Training Agency: Iron Workers Apprenticeship
Machinists
Description: Candidates will manufacture high precision parts for equipment out of a variety of metals using manual methods as well as Computer Numeric Control (CNC), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM), Computer Aided Design (CAD) software platforms.
Salary Potential:
Length of program: In addition to 40 hours a week of work, for a total of 8,000 hours, you will also attend an additional 200 paid hours of coursework at a community college per year.
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
Salary Potential:
Length of program: In addition to 40 hours a week of work, for a total of 8,000 hours, you will also attend an additional 200 paid hours of coursework at a community college per year.
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Possess a high school diploma.
- Be Physically able to perform the work.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Be able to present paperwork supporting legal right to work in California.
- Must be willing to wear personal protective equipment for radioactive and toxic materials.
Training Agency: Jon Fowkes
Millwrights
Description: Millwright work includes the erecting, installation and maintenance of equipment and machinery. Typical systems are conveyors, processing equipment, bulk material handling, pumps, and compressors. Millwright work is often technical, requiring a high degree of precision.
Salary Potential: Varies by area.
Length of program: This apprenticeship requires 4,800 hours over a 48 months period. With 576 hours of instruction at a carpenters training center.
Cost of Program: No cost. Pay union dues.
Prerequisites:
Description: Millwright work includes the erecting, installation and maintenance of equipment and machinery. Typical systems are conveyors, processing equipment, bulk material handling, pumps, and compressors. Millwright work is often technical, requiring a high degree of precision.
Salary Potential: Varies by area.
Length of program: This apprenticeship requires 4,800 hours over a 48 months period. With 576 hours of instruction at a carpenters training center.
Cost of Program: No cost. Pay union dues.
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age, or 17 with parental consent.
- Possess a high school diploma.
- Be physically able to perform the work.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Be able to present paperwork supporting legal right to work in California.
- Cohorts of 16 people go at a time.
- Referred from local union halls.
Training Agency: United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America
Plumber:
Description: Plumbers work with the various materials and fixtures used in installation, removal, maintenance, extension and alteration of a plumbing system. Plumbing systems include all sanitary drainage, storm drainage facilities, special wastes, vent systems, public or private water systems and gas piping within or adjacent to any building.
Salary Potential: Starts at $21.96/hour (Union Jobs)
Length of program: The apprentice will work 9,000 hours over a 5 year period, and attend 1,080 hours of related training classes.
Cost of Program: None other than paying union dues
Prerequisites:
Description: Plumbers work with the various materials and fixtures used in installation, removal, maintenance, extension and alteration of a plumbing system. Plumbing systems include all sanitary drainage, storm drainage facilities, special wastes, vent systems, public or private water systems and gas piping within or adjacent to any building.
Salary Potential: Starts at $21.96/hour (Union Jobs)
Length of program: The apprentice will work 9,000 hours over a 5 year period, and attend 1,080 hours of related training classes.
Cost of Program: None other than paying union dues
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Possess a high school diploma.
- Be Physically able to perform the work.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Be able to present paperwork supporting legal right to work in California.
Training Agency: Plumbers and Steam fitters, Local Union
Roofers and Waterproofers
Description: Roofers apply a variety of materials including hot and cold build-up roofing and/or waterproofing, asphalt, shingles, tile and single ply roofing materials including EPDM, PVC, Hypalon and modified modified bitumen.
Salary Potential: Start $16.80. Upon completion, $34.59 (2018 wages)
Length of program: This apprenticeship is 42 months long with 400 class hours and 4,000 hours of on the job training. There are also required related training sessions.
Cost of Program: No cost. Must work for a union shop prior to enrollment.
Prerequisites:
Description: Roofers apply a variety of materials including hot and cold build-up roofing and/or waterproofing, asphalt, shingles, tile and single ply roofing materials including EPDM, PVC, Hypalon and modified modified bitumen.
Salary Potential: Start $16.80. Upon completion, $34.59 (2018 wages)
Length of program: This apprenticeship is 42 months long with 400 class hours and 4,000 hours of on the job training. There are also required related training sessions.
Cost of Program: No cost. Must work for a union shop prior to enrollment.
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Be Physically able to perform the work.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Must be willing to purchase tools and equipment at an estimated cost of $150.
- Must not have a fear of heights.
Training Agency: Roofers Apprenticeship
Surveyors
Description: A surveyor is one who has the ability to use mathematics as a means to visualize objects, measure distances, sizes, and other abstract forms. They have to work with precision and accuracy because mistakes can be costly. Surveying is a cooperative process, therefore strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work, as parts of a team are important. Entry-level surveyors will learn and acquire leadership abilities that are important for party chiefs and other supervisory positions.
Salary Potential: $18.11 starting pay. Raises are given after every 1,000 hours worked. $42.19 after completion of all 8 sessions.
Length of program: This program requires eight periods of training with 1,000 hours and 72 class hours.
Cost of Program: No cost.
Prerequisites:
Description: A surveyor is one who has the ability to use mathematics as a means to visualize objects, measure distances, sizes, and other abstract forms. They have to work with precision and accuracy because mistakes can be costly. Surveying is a cooperative process, therefore strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work, as parts of a team are important. Entry-level surveyors will learn and acquire leadership abilities that are important for party chiefs and other supervisory positions.
Salary Potential: $18.11 starting pay. Raises are given after every 1,000 hours worked. $42.19 after completion of all 8 sessions.
Length of program: This program requires eight periods of training with 1,000 hours and 72 class hours.
Cost of Program: No cost.
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Possess a high school diploma.
- Be Physically able to perform the work.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Be able to present paperwork supporting legal right to work in California.
- Must have a job in a union shop, or be on the wait list for the program.
Training Agency: teapprenticeship.org
Lineman
Description: Linemen install and repair high voltage electrical power lines in all weather conditions. This is a dangerous, challenging and rewarding job.
Salary Potential: $68,000
Length of program: This program is 15 weeks long. It is put on by an independent school.
Cost of Program: $17,450 (includes requires boots and tools, lab fees, and tuition)
Prerequisites:
Description: Linemen install and repair high voltage electrical power lines in all weather conditions. This is a dangerous, challenging and rewarding job.
Salary Potential: $68,000
Length of program: This program is 15 weeks long. It is put on by an independent school.
Cost of Program: $17,450 (includes requires boots and tools, lab fees, and tuition)
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Possess a high school diploma.
- Be Physically able to perform the work.
- Speak and read English well enough to follow directions and provide for safety.
- Have a valid CA driver’s license.
- Be able to present paperwork supporting legal right to work in California.
- Free of fear of heights, and possess an attention to detail and safety.
Training Agency : Northwest Lineman’s School
| Northern California Construction Related Unions |
- SF Plumbing and Steam fitters Union
- SF Building and Construction Trades
- Northern California District Council of Laborers
- International Brotherhood of Electric Workers Union - Napa and Solano Counties
- Welding and Iron workers, San Francisco
- North Coast Builders Exchange - Santa Rosa (not a Union, but a good resource )
- Mendocino College Sustainable Tech Program: Offers classes.
| Non Union Certifications/Training Programs: |
| Local Certificate Pathways: |
Sustainable Technology Certificate
To earn a certificate in sustainable construction and energy technology, students must complete the quarter requirements and business electives listed below, and then choose from the list of electives specific to each certificate.
| Class # | Core Requirements: Complete All | Units |
| BUS 174 | Intro. to Green Business Principles and Practices | 3 |
| CSC 201 | Computers and Computer Applications | 3 |
| SCT162 | Safety Standards for Construction | 1.5 |
| SCT 164 | Construction Documents I: Blueprints | 3 |
| SCT 166 | Introduction to Construction Management | 2 |
| SCT 172 | Introduction to CleanTech | 3 |
| SST 184 | Construction Documents II: Building Code | 3 |
| SCT 196 | Occupational Work Experience | 1 - 8 |
| SCT 200 | Sustainability Overview | 3 |
| Class # | Business Electives - Minimum of 2 courses |
Units |
| BUS 108 |
Computerized Accounting |
3 |
| BUS 109 | California Tax Accounting | 1 |
| BUS 132 | Entrepreneurial Management | 3 |
| BUS 176 | The New Green Economy: Trends and Opportunities | 3 |
| BUS 230 | Introduction to Business | 3 |
Construction
The Construction Certificate combines hands-on technical training with building science theory, business skills, green building techniques and work experience in a quickly evolving industry. This certificate prepares students to gain general employment in the building Trades, specialize in green building, start their own business, or pursue a Contracting license or construction management degree. This certificate can generally be completed within 3 semesters.
| Class # | Required for the certificate: In addition to core requirements |
Units |
| SCT 180A | Construction Fundamentals & Green Building | 3 |
| SCT 184 | Construction Documents II | 3 |
| SCT 193 | Building Performance and Weatherization | 3 |
| Class # | Electives: One course minimum | Units |
| SCT 180B | Advanced Construction Fundamentals | 3 |
| SCT 182 | Residential Remodel and Repair | 3 |
| SCT 186 | Introduction to residential Electrical Systems | 3 |
| SCT 189 | Introduction to Plumbing | 3 |
Renewable Energy
The Renewable Energy Certificate combines Hands-On Technical Training in photovoltaics and solar hot water systems with business skills development, work experience and sustainability Concepts. Students who complete the certificate will be well positioned to gain employment.
This certificate can generally be completed within three semesters and prepare students to take the North American Board Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) entry level exams for PV and solar thermal.
| Class # | Required for the certificate : in addition to core requirements | Units |
| SCT 186 | Introduction to Residential Electrical Systems | 3 |
| SCT 190 | Introduction Photovoltaics | 3 |
| SCT 192 | Residential Solar Thermal (Hot Water) | 3 |
| Class # | Electives: One course minimum | Units |
| SCT 180A | Construction Fundamentals & Green Building | 3 |
| SCT 184 | Construction Documents II | 3 |
| SCT 189 | Introduction to Plumbing | 3 |
| SCT 193 | Building Performance and Weatherization | 3 |
Building Efficiency and Performance
The Building Efficiency and Performance Certificate combines technical training with efficiency auditing and retrofitting with building science theory, HVAC training, green building techniques, and business skills. Students completing the certificate will be to go to gain employment or start a business in the emerging field of energy auditing, retrofitting, and HVAC. This course prepare students for a range of Industry certifications and can generally be completed within 3 semesters.
| Class # | Required for the certificate: In addition to core requirements | Units |
| SCT 180A | Construction Fundamentals and Green Building | 3 |
| SCT 193 | Building Performance & Weatherization | 3 |
| SCT 194 | Efficient Heating and Cooling | 3 |
| Class # | Electives: One course minimum | Units |
| SCT 182 | Residential Remodel & Repair | 3 |
| SCT 186 | Introduction to Residential Electrical Systems | 3 |
| SCT 195 | Introduction to HVAC Maintenance & Repair | 3 |
| Construction Related Occupational Pathways available from Mendocino College |
HERS: (Home Energy Efficiency Rating System)
Description: HERS certified workers conduct tests of building HVAC systems to determine the status of leaks within the system.
Salary Potential: $36,000
Length of program: Depends on individual.
Cost of Program: $1,799
Prerequisites: To complete this certificate, candidates must complete:
- An online course,
- An instructor led lab,
- Pass three exams with a score of 80% or higher.
Training Agency: CalCERTS
HVAC Technician
Description: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and ventilation technicians learn to install, service, and repair residential and commercial cooling and heating units.
Salary Potential: $47,080
Length of program: On the job training
Cost of Program: None
Prerequisites:
Description: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and ventilation technicians learn to install, service, and repair residential and commercial cooling and heating units.
Salary Potential: $47,080
Length of program: On the job training
Cost of Program: None
Prerequisites:
- Willingness to work in hot and cold environments, as well as confined spaces.
- Ca driver’s license, and documentation showing ability to work in the US.
- Enrollment in, or completion of, an apprenticeship in this area is desirable for employers.
Training Agency: Employer
Contact: Local contractors
Contact: Local contractors
HVAC Contractor
Description:
Salary Potential: $50,910+
Length of program: 6 months (90 course hours)
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
Salary Potential: $50,910+
Length of program: 6 months (90 course hours)
Cost of Program:
Prerequisites:
- High school diploma
- Completion of a Union or military apprenticeship program
- EPA Refrigerant Recovery Certificate
- CA driver’s license.
Training Agency: Mendocino College
Certified Electrician Trainee
Description: CET’s are individuals who aspire to become electricians. They must work under a licensed electrician and complete course work in order to progress in their field.
Salary Potential: $41,880
Length of program: 5 years minimum to complete.
Cost of Program: No cost for union programs, other programs vary.
Prerequisites: Must be enrolled in a union, or post secondary training program
Training Agency: Many available Statewide
Training Agency: Many available Statewide
Description: Solar Installer
Salary Potential: $40,000
Length of program: 18 months
Cost of Program: $2,800
Prerequisites:
Salary Potential: $40,000
Length of program: 18 months
Cost of Program: $2,800
Prerequisites:
- Complete the Renewable Energy Certificate
- Successfully pass the NAB CEP exam.
Training Agency: Mendocino College
Description: Automotive Technician
Salary Potential: $34,000
Length of program: 4 - 6 semesters
Cost of Program: $2,760
Prerequisites:
Salary Potential: $34,000
Length of program: 4 - 6 semesters
Cost of Program: $2,760
Prerequisites:
- Complete the Automotive Technology certificate.
Training Agency: Mendocino College
Description: General Contractor
Salary Potential: $40,000+
Length of program: Work in the construction industry for at least 4 years. You may also take classes to complete the Construction Certificate.
Cost of Program: $1,008
Prerequisites:
Length of program: Work in the construction industry for at least 4 years. You may also take classes to complete the Construction Certificate.
Cost of Program: $1,008
Prerequisites:
- 4 years work experience
Training Agency: Mendocino College (Construction Certificate)
Firefighter
Description: Firefighters suppress structure and wildland fires, as well as perform basic first aid, and manage rescues during natural disasters and vehicle accidents. Firefighters also conduct fire prevention education, and hazard material response.
Salary Potential: Large range depending on area.
Length of program: Contact agency for more information
Cost of Program: No cost. Must be hired by a fire department first.
Prerequisites:
Description: Firefighters suppress structure and wildland fires, as well as perform basic first aid, and manage rescues during natural disasters and vehicle accidents. Firefighters also conduct fire prevention education, and hazard material response.
Salary Potential: Large range depending on area.
Length of program: Contact agency for more information
Cost of Program: No cost. Must be hired by a fire department first.
Prerequisites:
- Firefighters generally start as an EMT-1 and work their way up
- Candidates should also have a good understanding of physics, math, and vocational skills
- There is a written and physical ability test (California Physical Ability Test), oral interview, medical examination and a background investigation before you begin your career
- Also, you must be a good team worker
- Must be hired by a fire department first
- Probation for one year.
Training Agency: California Fire Fighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee (Academy)