OLMIS

Published Dec-15-2009

Are you someone who wants to be challenged? Do you enjoy being physically active, creative, and building things? If these characteristics describe you, you may want to explore a registered apprenticeship.

Registered apprenticeships combine supervised on-the-job learning and classroom instruction. Apprentices work full time in their chosen careers, usually starting at half the wage of a journey-level worker – one who has completed training and been certified in the occupation. Apprentices receive pay increases as they learn to perform more complex tasks. When they become journey workers, they increase their chances of finding well-paying jobs and may become supervisors or go into business for themselves.

There are more than 60 apprenticeable occupations in Oregon including painter, drywall finisher, electrician, heavy-duty mechanic, corrections officer, sheet metal worker, outside electric line worker, and water service mechanic.

Get detailed information about every registered apprenticeship program in Oregon at  www.oregon.gov/BOLI/ATD/A_AG_Intro.shtml. Or contact:

Apprenticeship Division, Oregon Bureau of Labor & Industries (BOLI)

Portland (971) 673-0760
Eugene (541) 686-7654
Medford (541) 776-6201
Bend (541) 322-2436

To prepare to become an apprentice, it is important to:

• Study math, science, and communication.
  
• Complete high school or earn your GED.
  
• Stay drug free.
  
• Ask questions of people who work in occupations that offer apprenticeships.
  
• Keep a good driving record.
  
• Learn what a good work ethic is and practice it.

Source: Oregon Bureau of Labor & Industries