NATURE OF THE TRADE:

Plumbers & Steamfitters are craft workers who install pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases needed for sanitation, industrial production or other uses. They also alter and repair existing pipe systems and install plumbing fixtures, appliances and heating and refrigeration units.

Plumbers: install pipes for water, gas, sewage, and drainage systems, especially those connected to public utility systems. They also install sanitary facilities such as lavatories, toilets, bathtubs, bathroom fixtures, showers, kitchen fixtures, drinking fountains, and laundry equipment.

Pipefitters: Pipefitters assemble, install, and maintain piping systems that carry water, steam, and fluids necessary for manufacturing processes. In order to build these complex systems, a pipefitter must obtain extensive knowledge of Hydronics and Steam. In class you will learn complicated mathematics problem solving in addition to Steam and Hydronics theory.

HVAC/Refrigeration: Service fitters install, repair, and troubleshoot air conditioning and heating equipment for many different applications and industries. While taking classes in these disciplines you will learn basic electricity along with arc flash safety training. At the completion of apprenticeship you will have the knowledge to pass an HVAC and Refrigeration exam.

Welders: At Local #33 we have a state of the art welding shop with capabilities of welding in every process used in the pipe welding industry. We test and certify welders in the SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, and FCAW processes. With more than 50 weld certifications available, the possibilities are endless!

APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING:

The Life of An Apprentice: You will work for one of our signatory contractors 40 plus hours per week and attend school 6 weeks per year. DAT funds will be available to you each week you are in school. As a first year apprentice you will complete 30 Hour OSHA. You will also have the opportunity to obtain a two year associates degree. Upon completion of the program, you will have a minimum of two State of Iowa licenses – Medical Gas, Backflow, OSHA, Heavy Rigging, Qualified Signalperson, Foreman Training, and CFC Certifications.

Apprentices in Local 33’s Five (5) year UA Training program earn hourly wages while they learn their craft.  Spending 246 hours in classroom training allows apprentices to learn the very latest technological advances in the industry and 1,700 – 2,000 hours of on-the-job training for contractors prepares apprentices for real-world situations.

When you are accepted as a UA apprentice you’re part of an elite group of trades people with career potential that includes great wages, health and retirement benefits, the ability to grow into management and even ownership positions, as well as earning the respect of your family and friends.

You will be trained in our state-of-the-art training facility. Some of the courses you’ll be taking include:  plumbing, heating, refrigeration, medical gas, high purity piping, welding, electrical controls – all with an emphasis on being among the safest workers in your industry.

You must have a high school diploma to apply and pass aptitude ability tests.  Once accepted you will begin training in plumbing, heating, air conditioning, steamfitting and controls.

APPRENTICE WAGES:

An apprentice’s starting wage is 45% of journeyworker wages, with incremental increases throughout the apprenticeship. Apprentices also receive benefits which include health insurance and pension.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

• At least 18 years of age
• High School Diploma or GED
• Physically fit to perform work
• Must obtain a National Career Readiness Certificate of Silver or Higher
• Valid Driver’s License
• Successfully pass a Drug Screen

APPLICATION AND HIRING PROCESS:

Applications are accepted on a continuing basis. There is a $25 application fee. Interviews are given every three to four months.

The recruitment, selection, employment, and training of the apprentice shall be without discrimination because of race, disability, color, religion, national origin or gender.