Frequently Asked Questions
Careeer Worksheet (PDF)

Career Counselors

What makes careers in the trades and apprenticeship such a great option for workforce development?

More Info
Workshop Presentation Guide Download this career counselor resource here. Union Apprenticeship: Your Pathway to Success Download the presentation here.

When you place a client with no previous experience into the "Earn While You Learn" model of apprenticeship you are placing them directly into a high-wage/high-growth job with benefits. Women and men are paid to learn a skilled craft over time and eventually reach the level of Journeyman. The number of Journeymen who are retiring exceeds the number of new workers coming in to carry on the tradition. The construction industry desperately needs new workers to take over where others leave off. But learning a trade is a long process, not one that can be accomplished overnight. More…

Resources for Career Counselors

Download an Apprenticeship Workshop Presentation & Presenters Guide
Visit the State Building & Construction Trades Councils website for trade assessment tests, free DVD’s, brochures, and more.
FAQ sheet on Apprenticeship
Resources for Women in the trades

How to help clients find a program that’s right for them

1. Familiarize yourself with the different crafts and what they do so that you can direct people to those that best fit their interests and talents.

2. Understand the personality and traits you need to succeed in the trades. Pre-screening clients is vital for everyone concerned. Apprenticeship programs are looking for candidates who are willing to work hard and stick with the program for 3-5 years. The rewards are fantastic but they require commitment.

3. Learn the basics of Apprenticeship. Each program is run differently so you must work with them directly to get the most up-to-date application information. Here are some of the basic requirements that apply to most (not all) trades:

High School diploma or G.E.D.
Minimum 18 years of age (there is no specified maximum age).
Physical ability to perform the work.
Valid California Driver License.
Reliable transportation.
Drug free and willing to be drug tested.
Good basic math skills.

4. Know the apprenticeship programs operating in your area. Establish relationships with the Coordinators and let them know you are interested in working together. They can tell you what their anticipated needs are for workers in your specific area.

5. Make the Calapprenticeship.org website available to your clients for research on their pathway to success!