Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards

Mark your calendar now and register to attend the 24th Biennial Apprenticeship Conference, coming up in January, 2009.  Visit our conference site to view conference information as it is released!

What is Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship is a structured system of training designed to prepare individuals for skilled occupations. It combines on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced journey workers with related classroom instruction. Apprentices who successfully complete the prescribed number of hours of training in an apprenticeship program become certified skilled workers. A written agreement between the apprentice and the apprenticeship program is registered with the Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards, Department of Workforce Development.

Benefits for the Apprentice Apprenticeship offers several unique benefits: You "earn while you learn" - you can make a living wage with health insurance, retirement and other benefits while learning skills in a trade. As your skill level increases by learning the trade both in the classroom and on the job site, your wages also increase progressively. After completion of an apprenticeship program, your journey-level status is recognized nationally. Apprenticeship is a rewarding but demanding choice that requires determination, commitment and a good attitude to succeed, but for those who meet the challenges of apprenticeship, the rewards are substantial. A journeyworker is guaranteed an excellent wage and benefit package anywhere in the United States. He or she has become a highly trained and skilled worker whose qualifications are recognized and respected throughout the industry. Apprenticeship is one of the best ways to acquire work experience and training to establish yourself in a career.

Apprenticeship Booklet Detailed information on Wisconsin's Apprenticeship system.

Benefits for the Employer The apprenticeship system offers not just a job, but a career. It attracts better applicants and improves employer-employee relationships. During the period of training, employers can instill values such as company loyalty, good work practices, and positive work attitudes. In addition, it ensures training standards of the trade are met while improving training standards in the industry. When the training is completed and apprentices become fully qualified journey-level employees, they have little trouble fitting into the company because they already have a good grasp of the company's values and work requirements. With the promise of a future, apprentices become valuable, committed employees capable of advancing to more responsible positions within the company.

Employer Toolkit (Booklet) A Guide for Wisconsin Employers

Types of Apprenticeships Explore by selecting a trade area: Construction Trades Industrial Trades Service Trades

Special Benefits for Veterans This year, nearly $2.5M in Veteran's Benefits has been paid to qualified registered apprentices. Registered apprenticeships constitute qualified training for a veteran to receive benefits under Chapter 30, Montgomery GI Bill and Chapter 31, Vocational Rehabilitation (Voc-Rehab). Depending on your branch of service, your survivors may be eligible under Chapter 35, Survivors or Dependents programs. Check with OPI for specifics on these programs. All of these programs pay a monthly stipend directly to the eligible beneficiary. View more information about VA Education Benefits for Registered Apprenticeship or find a contact person who can help you understand the VA Benefits you may qualify for! For information regarding Skills to Build America’s Future visit http://www.careervoyages.gov/