Types of Apprenticeship Programs
Within the Roofers and Waterproofers Union, there are two types of apprenticeship programs — registered and Helper/Trainee.
Learn more about how each program helps men and women begin their careers in the union roofing industry through Roofers Local 44.
What is a Registered Apprenticeship Program?
On-the-job and classroom learning
A registered apprenticeship is a structured training program that combines on-the-job learning with related classroom instruction. It is officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor and designed to prepare individuals for a specific occupation while earning wages.
Earn While You Learn
Registered apprenticeships offer a unique “Earn While You Learn” model where apprentices receive a paycheck from day one, gradually increasing their hourly wages as they gain more skills and experience. This model ensures that apprentices acquire the necessary skills and knowledge for their trade, leading to a nationally recognized credential upon completion. The program typically lasts between one to six years, depending on the trade and the apprentice’s pace of learning.
Strict quality and safety standards
Registered apprenticeships are vital for developing a skilled workforce. They are governed by strict standards that ensure consistency, quality and safety in training. These standards are set by the U.S. Department of Labor and include requirements for the number of training hours, competencies to be achieved and mentor-apprentice ratios. This ensures that all apprentices receive the same high-quality training regardless of where they work.
Roofers and Waterproofers Local 44 Registered Apprenticeship Program
At Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers Local 44, an apprentice is more than just a trainee; they are the future of our industry. Local 44 apprentices are individuals who are committed to learning the skills and techniques necessary to excel in Roofing and Waterproofing.
Our apprenticeship program is a rigorous and comprehensive journey that blends hands-on work experience with classroom instruction following the standards set by the United Union of Roofers Waterproofers and Allied Workers and recognized by the Ohio State Apprenticeship Council.
Local 44 registered apprentices are expected to work alongside experienced journeymen and learn the trade in real-time. They also attend scheduled classes to reinforce the practical knowledge gained on the job. The Local 44 apprenticeship program is designed to ensure all apprentices develop a deep understanding of the trade’s technical and safety aspects.
The apprenticeship program typically lasts four to five years during which apprentices must complete a minimum of 300 hours of work before being eligible to become a registered apprentice. Throughout the program, apprentices earn wages that increase as they progress and achieve key milestones in their training. The program is structured to maintain a 1:2 ratio of apprentices to journeymen ensuring proper guidance and support.
Upon successful completion of the program, an apprentice earns the title of journeyman, gaining full membership in Roofers and Waterproofers Local 44 and becoming eligible for all the benefits and opportunities that come with it. This includes the ability to work on various projects, earn competitive wages and continue advancing their skills through ongoing training and education provided by Local 44.
Our apprenticeship program is not just about building skills; it’s about building a career with the support of a union dedicated to its members’ success.
Interested in Becoming an Apprentice?
If you’re ready to start your career in the roofing and waterproofing industry, click the button below to visit the Become an Apprentice page to learn more about the application process and requirements.
Helper/Trainee Program
Program Overview
The Helper/Trainee Program provides comprehensive on-the-job training, combined with specific upgrade training and job-specific certifications.
Participants in the Helper/Trainee Program work under the guidance of experienced union journeymen to learn the essential skills and safety practices required in the union roofing industry.
The program is structured to ensure that trainees gain hands-on experience while advancing their knowledge and technical abilities.
Become a Helper/Trainee
If you have experience in the non-union commercial roofing sector and are looking to transition into a union career, click the button below to visit our Become a Helper/Trainee page to learn more about the wage scale and application process.
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