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WVU Apprenticeship Program

What is a WVU Apprentice?

Since 2007, the Facilities Management Apprenticeship Program has been training men and women in the skills needed to work in its skilled trades organization. The program is designed to develop a team of highly specialized employees who are familiar with West Virginia University, its operations, processes, and people.

A WVU apprenticeship typically lasts four years with a general workweek of 37.5 hours (7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.). Work hours may occasionally vary to accommodate external training activities or other program requirements.

In addition to on-the-job training, formal instruction, and classroom education, apprentices are teamed with experienced mentors and other craft workers so they can develop into their chosen career.

Each year, apprentices must successfully complete 1,600 hours of on-the-job training plus 145 hours of classroom and technical education. Apprentices selected for the program become full-time WVU employees.

How do I go through the Apprenticeship Program?

The program is designed to meet and achieve standards set by the US Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship. As an apprentice, you will be required to complete each year of the program based upon a fully developed technical training and classroom education matrix, required hands-on training, and satisfactory job performance evaluations.

Upon successful completion of each stage of the program, apprentices are promoted to the next level of their apprenticeship, which also includes a wage increase. The graduated pay scale ensures that the salary reflects the degree of skill achieved.

Apprentices who successfully complete the program receive a certification from the US Department of Labor as a journeyman in his or her trade.

In addition, credit for some of the course work and training can be applied toward an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

What costs are involved?

There are relatively no costs to apprentices. All apprentices are full-time WVU employees receiving a competitive salary and benefits.

While in the program, apprentices receive paid time off for all off-site classroom and technical training, workshops, and seminars.

Tools and safety equipment are also provided; however, apprentices may need to arrange for travel to and from classes when required. Most training classes are either conducted on-site or at the Monongalia Technical Education Center.

Responsibilities of an Apprentice

Each apprentice is expected to make every effort to gain the skills and knowledge to successfully complete the program. Apprentices are required to attend all scheduled training classes, complete all work assignments, and achieve passing grades for all course work.

As a full-time WVU employee, apprentices are subject to all University and Facilities Management policies and procedures. Because the health and safety of our employees is paramount to the campus work environment, apprentices are also expected to comply with all health and safety rules and regulations.

If you are customer service focused and motivated to learn new skills, this program may be a good fit for you.

How do I apply?

Interested candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED and a valid driver’s license. Applicants are not required to have any general trade skills or previous work experience. Aptitude testing is used during the selection process to help determine the appropriate trade skill most beneficial to the candidate.

There is a unique position description for each year of the Apprenticeship Program that provides specific information about qualifications, job duties, and responsibilities. Competency assessments are also used to ensure that each apprentice is successfully completing the program.

Apprentice positions will be posted on the WVUJobs Bulletin as they become available!