FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQS ABOUT CONSTRUCTION APPRENTICESHIP
FAQs ABOUT APPRENTICESHIP:
Apprenticeship is the original 4-year degree!
The apprenticeship programs at Northwest College of Construction combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Unlike traditional colleges and universities where a student gets a degree and then gets hired to a job, at NWCOC the job comes first. Apprentices go to school while they work, get paid and build their careers.
The FIRST THING we do for applicants to the apprenticeship program is place them in a job with a construction contractor (Training Agent).
*Overall application process/dispatch time varies between specific trade and the time of the year.
Training is FREE!
Zero tuition, zero application fees and no cancellation fees. Most importantly, NO STUDENT LOAN DEBT!
HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?!?
The construction industry pays for student’s tuition and books through an established training trust (exceptions apply in the HVAC, Sheet Metal and Protective Signaling programs).
The goal of the trust is to provide the industry with a well-trained and strong workforce. Providing a completely free education allows students to focus on their training as opposed to having to go into debt with student loans.
We aren’t kidding. Training and education at Northwest College of Construction is COMPLETELY FREE. The only thing students may need to pay for is protective gear and tools.
Applicants can apply to Northwest College of Construction on our apprenticeship page.
Each trade has their own specific application requirements and processes. They can be viewed on each individual trade webpage.
APPLICATION IS FREE! It does not cost anything to apply to NWCOC.
Unlike traditional colleges and universities, NWCOC accepts applications for apprenticeship year-round (specific trades may have their own application window).
We accept students all times of the year. When you are accepted into the program, you start taking classes immediately (with the exception of summer break).
Once hired by a Training Agent, an applicant’s status changes from Applicant to Registered Apprentice, making them eligible to enroll as a student at the college and start going to class.
Apprentices work a paying job during the day and come to school for class once a week during the night or once a month for a full day (depending on trade and schedule).
The first thing NWCOC does for applicants is get them hired to an employer for a full time job.
The time it takes to get hired can vary based on situation, selected craft, time of year and job availability.
During the busy season it could possibly take as little as two weeks! In the winter it might take longer.
Unfortunately we cannot provide a concrete timeframe on how long the process will take.
Those looking to find success at NWCOC should understand the following responsibilities…
- Maintain a good attitude.
- Get to work and class ON TIME.
- Have good communication and follow through.
- Attend ALL your classes.
Those looking to potentially become an apprentice at NWCOC should understand the following realities of apprenticeship…
- Employment in construction is project-based, not hours-based. You will work varying hours, varying schedules and varying jobs based on the projects needing to be completed.
- Be prepared for periods of unemployment (most likely during winter when project count is lower).
- Be prepared for variations in pay. One project could pay a different wage than another project.
- Apprenticeship is a pathway to a lucrative and lifelong career to those willing to put forth the time and effort. This opportunity is yours to take. Are you ready to grasp it?
If an applicant is brand new to the construction industry, we highly recommend starting out with the CONSTRUCTION CRAFT LABORERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.
This program is a fantastic starting point for those who aren’t entirely sure which craft they want to commit to.
Students will learn about what it takes to work in construction and immediately start building a resume for their future. Many of our Heavy Equipment apprentices START OUT in the Construction Craft Laborers apprenticeship program.
HOW IS APPRENTICESHIP DIFFERENT FROM A TRADITIONAL COLLEGE EDUCATION?
Job Placement FIRST!
The first thing NWCOC does for applicants is get them hired to an employer.
Classroom and On-The-Job Education
Students work during the day for their employer and come to class at NWCOC once a week or once a month depending on trade and schedule.
Tuition is FREE
Students at NWCOC do not pay tuition. Education is FREE (exceptions apply in the Sheet Metal, HVAC and Protective Signaling trades).
Build Your Future NOW!
Students don’t have to wait to start earning money and building a career. From day one they start working, making money, building their resume and start establishing their careers.
HOW IS APPRENTICESHIP THE SAME AS A TRADITIONAL COLLEGE EDUCATION?
Hard Work!
Being an apprentice is not an easy task. Apprentices are expected to put forth effort on the job site and in the classroom.
Tests and Homework
Class at NWCOC includes homework and tests. Studying is required to succeed.
Nationally Recognized Credential
Graduates of our apprenticeship program receive a Journey Workers Card, our version of a degree or diploma. This card allows one to command more money on the job site and work in multiple states.
Classroom Learning
Although we try to use as much hands-on learning as possible, there’s still a significant portion of apprenticeship education that includes learning in a traditional classroom format.
WHAT CAN APPLICANTS DO TO PREPARE FOR A CAREER IN CONSTRUCTION?
- Work on a landscaping crew.
- Work as a material handler.
- Enroll in a pre-apprenticeship program.
- Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity or something like it.
- Get physically fit.
WHAT CHARACTER STRENGTHS WILL HELP SOMEONE SUCCEED IN A CONSTRUCTION APPRENTICESHIP?
- Like to work outside.
- Physically fit.
- Works well under authority.
- Team player / coachable.
- Isn’t afraid to ask questions.
- Adaptability.
- Understands long-term thinking.
GENERAL INFORMATION SESSION:
Interested in learning more about our free apprenticeship program? Sign up for the next General Information Session.
You can expect to learn more about our ten different craft programs, starting a career in construction, how much you can expect to be paid and how to move forward in applying to NWCOC.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!
Have further questions about apprenticeship at NWCOC? Use this form to contact us!