The Apprenticeship method of training came to the United States from Europe. It was the training method of choice for centuries. The National Apprenticeship Act of 1937 authorized the U.S. Secretary of Labor to establish and register apprenticeship programs. In 1947 states were permitted to register their own programs. In 2000 the Florida Legislature intent upon strengthening the partnership between industry and Florida educators, transferred program oversight to the Department of Education, Division of Workforce Development.

Registered apprenticeship programs are governed by an organization, employer, or group of employers that identify training needs. Federal and State standards require at least 1 year (2000 hours) of technical instruction. Programs in Florida range from 1-6 years with the average length being 4 years. (Read the back of the Worksheet under Program Requirements).

Want to "Earn While You Learn" ?

Apprenticeship programs combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. What you learn in class (or online)you get to put into action immediately under the watchful eye of a journeyperson/mentor. The apprentice gets to practice what they learn in a real live work environment and get paid for it.

Wages start at, not less than 35%-50% of a journeyperson's wage and increase incrementally as you move through the program. In the fourth year of apprenticeship, your pay rate shall typically be no less than 75% of that of a journeyperson. As your technical skills increase, so do your wages. Upon completion of the program you should be a journeyperson with four years of experience in the trade. In the plumbing trade you will be well prepared by FPAA to take the Journeyman's Exam given locally by the CILB,(Contractors Industry Licensing Board). 

The apprentice's completion certificate is issued by the Florida Department of Education and recognized nationally by the industry and U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship.

Don't hesitate to call our office if you have any questions @ 561 586-2290, or email us @ This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ).