Earn and Learn
Debt Free.
Become an Apprentice
- Apprenticeship can be seen as an opportunity multiplier.
- Allows one to gain a transferable industry recognized credential (journey workers card), without having the cost that a college degree comes with.
- You don’t have to wait until high school graduation to start working in your desired field, if you know what you really want to do.
- Apprentices are paid during their on-the-job training and classroom hours.
- Apprenticeships are not just for the skilled trades! UPMW has apprenticeships in healthcare, education, and technology.
- Competency-based programs rather than time-based allow apprentices who are excelling to finish sooner than their time-based counterparts.
- Every apprentice is paired with both a UPMW case manager and a journey worker / supervisor on the job ensuring that they have as much support as they need to succeed.
- We offer an array of supportive services to apprentices who may need help with gas money, work attire, or tools.
- Job seekers can visit any UPMW office and ask to talk to a case manager about apprenticeships and any other services we may be able to offer.
- They can also email apprentice@upmichiganworks.org
- With apprenticeships you get paid to learn, rather than paying to learn.
- Apprenticeships tend to be more hands on than typical training or education paths.
- Can start working towards desired career pathway while in high school
- Many people associate the word apprenticeship with skilled trades or unions. The truth is that there are more that 950 occupations that the Department of Labor recognizes as being apprenticeable.
- Some industries that you may not realize are apprenticeable:
- Accommodation and Food
- Services
- Agriculture
- Educational Services
- Finance
- Health Care
- Information Technologies
- Management
IBEW Local 906
Internal Electricians install and maintain all the various types of electrical systems found in commercial and industrial facilities. Equipment used may include lighting, receptacles, motors, heating equipment, and systems that control the operation of all of a facility’s energy usage.
Program length is 3-5 years.
IBEW Local 906
Apply anytime! Pick up an application at the training center or request one by mail. Reach out to (906) 346-2717 or 906jatcoffice@gmail.com.
- High School Diploma or GED
- Valid Drivers License
- Drug Test
- 18+ Years Old
- 1 Year of High School Algebra or Equivalent
- Upper Peninsula Resident
- Testing and Exam
U.P. Plumbers &
Pipefitters 111
Pipefitters handle the installation of piping systems that carry hot water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases needed for industrial production, or other uses. Pipefitters lay out, fabricate and assemble pipes from drawings, blueprints and specifications. Plumbers measure, cut, thread, bend, install and test pipes and pipefittings. The work is completed according to blueprints, specifications and working drawings.
Program length is 5 years.
U.P. Plumbers &
& Pipefitters
Apply during open enrollment dates. Start the process by calling your local U.P. Michigan Works! office.
- High School Diploma or GED
- Reliable Transportation
- Valid Drivers License
- Drug Test
- 18+ Years Old
- Subject to Background Check
- WorkKeys Scores: Graphic Literacy, Workplace Documents, Applied Math ($13/test)