What is a registered apprenticeship program
A registered apprenticeship program is a proven model of apprenticeship that has been validated by the Department of Labor or State Apprenticeship Agency. Registered apprentices are a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction in which workers are paid to learn. At the same time, they work their way toward becoming journeymen technicians.
How long does the Sound and Communication apprenticeship program take?
The Sound and Communication apprenticeship takes three years to complete. By the time apprentices graduate, they must have completed a total of 480 hours of classroom instruction and at least 160 hours a year. They also must have at least 4,800 hours of on-the-job training on construction sites.
What type of work will I be doing?
Sound and Communication Technicians install networks of low-voltage cabling used for video, voice, data and other low-voltage signaling. The responsibilities include construction, installation, servicing and maintaining sound, access control, telephone/data and computer systems integration. You can learn more about the Sound and Communication apprenticeship on our How to Apply page.
What do apprentices earn?
An apprentice’s main goal is to “top out” as a journeyman, but during the five-year program they earn a livable wage. As their skillset increases, apprentices also have the opportunity to earn more money thanks to scheduled raises in the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Through training, apprentices can earn industry and safety certifications and some college credit if they wish to pursue a degree. For the apprentice wage scale, see Wage Rates.
How do I apply?
If you prefer to fill out an application in person, you must call the office at (559) 251-5174, ext. 1 and schedule an appointment to fill out an application.
Go to our How to Apply page to see the qualifications applicants must meet in order to be considered for a spot in our apprenticeship program.
Do I get a pay raise for the different levels of Apprenticeship that I complete?
Yes.
How are students graded?
Students are assessed in five categories and must achieve a satisfactory rating in each one in order to continue in the program without a penalty. Apprentices will be assessed in homework, personal attitude, classroom attitude, lab performance and test scores.