Apprentice
An apprenticeship with the United Association (UA) is your gateway to a rewarding, high-demand career in the piping, plumbing, HVACR, welding, or fire protection trades.
UA Registered Apprenticeship Programs blend paid, on-the-job training with classroom learning, providing the skills, knowledge, and industry-recognized credentials needed to succeed in today’s competitive construction and service sectors. As a UA apprentice, you will Earn While You Learn, allowing you to build your future with no student debt and a direct path to a stable, well-paying career.
What Is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a structured training program that combines paid, on-the-job training with related technical classroom instruction. Registered with the U.S. Department of Labor and Canadian authorities, UA apprenticeships ensure you gain the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to become a journeyman in your chosen trade.
UA apprenticeships typically last five years and cover a range of disciplines. Career tracks include the following:
- Plumbing
- Sprinkler Fitting
- Pipefitting
- HVACR
- Steamfitting
- Welding
Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll work alongside experienced journeymen. You will also learn from certified instructors at our state-of-the-art training centers, which are equipped with the latest industry tools and technologies.
What Do Apprentices Do?
UA apprentices play a vital role on every jobsite, contributing to the installation, maintenance, and repair of essential piping and mechanical systems in residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional settings.
As an apprentice, you will:
Gain hands-on experience by working on active jobsites under the supervision of skilled professionals.
Master safety protocols, blueprint reading, code compliance, and modern installation techniques.
Participate in regular classroom sessions covering trade theory, math, science, and emerging industry technologies.
Receive competitive wages and benefits from day one, with pay increases as you progress through your training.
The Benefits of Becoming a UA Apprentice
No Student Debt: Apprentices graduate with valuable skills and credentials without the burden of paying back student loans.
Nationally Recognized Credentials: UA apprenticeships are respected across North America, opening doors to employment and advancement.
Career Security: Pipe trades work is in demand, offering employment opportunities throughout North America and excellent earning potential.
Pathways to Advancement: After completing your apprenticeship, you top out and become a journeyman. From this point, your career has options. You can work with the tools or move into leadership and management roles.
Take the First Step Toward a Rewarding Career
If you’re ready to start building a secure future in the pipe trades, a UA apprenticeship is the perfect place to begin. You’ll have everything you need to succeed with a blend of hands-on experience, classroom learning, and a supportive union community.
To receive more information about joining the UA, please submit your contact information, and someone will contact you to discuss the process.