What does an Apprentice do?
Published 3 min read
An apprentice is a person who is learning a trade from a more experienced worker.
Apprentice job duties include:
- Completing assigned tasks under the supervision of a journeyman
- Learning the trade through on-the-job training
- Attending classroom instruction related to the trade
- Understanding and following safety rules and regulations
- Working with hand tools, power tools and other equipment
- Reading and interpreting blueprints and other technical drawings
- Measuring, cutting and installing materials
- Following oral and written instructions
- Maintaining a clean and organized work area
Apprentice Job Requirements
There are a few requirements for becoming an apprentice. The first is education; you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Next, you must have a valid driver's license and be at least 18 years old. Finally, you must pass a background check and drug test. Once you have met all of these requirements, you can begin your apprenticeship.
Apprentice Skills
- Listening
- Speaking
- Reading
- Writing
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Social Perceptiveness
- Coordination
- Persuasion
- Negotiation
- Service Orientation
Related: Top Apprentice Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become an Apprentice
An apprenticeship is a system of training a new generation of practitioners of a trade or profession with on-the-job training and often some accompanying study (classroom work and reading). Apprenticeship also enables practitioners to gain a license to practice in a regulated profession. Most of their training is done while working for an employer who helps the apprentice learn their trade or profession, in exchange for their commitment to work for that employer for a period of time.
There are many ways to become an apprentice. One way is to find an apprenticeship program that is sponsored by an employer, labor union, or other organization. Another way is to contact a local trade or professional organization, or the state department of labor, to inquire about apprenticeship opportunities. Many states have programs that help connect apprentices with sponsoring employers.
Once you have found an opportunity that interests you, the next step is to apply. Apprenticeship programs usually require applicants to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may also require applicants to take aptitude tests or have prior experience in the field.
After being accepted into an apprenticeship program, the next step is to complete the required training. This typically takes between two and four years, although some programs may be shorter or longer. During this time, apprentices will learn skills such as safety procedures, blueprint reading, and welding techniques. They will also receive on-the-job training from experienced workers in their chosen field.
Once an apprentice has completed their training, they will typically receive a journeyman’s certificate or license. This allows them to work independently in their chosen field. Some states also require journeyman electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople to pass an exam before they can receive their license.
Related: Apprentice Resume Example
Related: Apprentice Interview Questions (With Example Answers)