Working Towards a Brighter Future
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Requirements?
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old at
the time they apply - Washington State Driver’s License
- Must provide proof of High School Diploma or GED
- Resume, Certifications, Letters of Recommendation, Examples of Previous Projects
- After you have completed the application, you will be required to take a comprehensive exam. This test is completed at our training facilities; at no cost to the applicant. The test will be scheduled at different times by facility location.
- DD-214 (If applicable)
- Drug Testing Prior to employment, a 9 panel non-DOT drug test will be required.
- Completion of apprenticeship interview
Which location do I apply to?
The Burlington facility covers Snohomish, Skagit and Whatcom counties. The Lacey facility covers Pierce, Thurston, Lewis, Grays Harbor and Pacific counties. The Bremerton facility covers Kitsap and Mason counties. The Longview facility covers Cowlitz and Skamania counties.
How long is the apprenticeship program?
We are a 10,000 hour program; which equates to approx. 5 years to complete.
Why should I choose to be union?
Being affiliated with a union provides you with a comprehensive wage and benefit package that ensures you have medical coverage, you build a retirement for the future, and you will receive some of the highest wages in the piping industry.
Who do we hire?
We are looking for motivated people who enjoy building things and do not mind being in the weather. We believe in a diverse workforce and encourage minorities and women to apply for our apprenticeship program. We build America! If you are the kind of person who would take great pride in driving by a school or a power plant that you helped build; and maybe even showing it off to your friends or relatives one day, this may be the place for you! Above all, we are all family here at Greater Western Washington Pipe Trades. This is a place to learn and to become the best mechanic possible. The opportunities here at Local 26 are endless.
What am I responsible to pay out of pocket?
Union dues and books are required to be paid out of the apprentice’s pocket. Books may vary in price, depending on the classes scheduled.
What will I get paid?
Apprentices start out getting paid 50% of the current Journeyman scale. In addition, there is a full medical, dental, and retirement package. For every 1,000 hours worked (approx. 6 months) apprentices are given a 5% increase on their paycheck.
What happens after I submit my application?
✓ Your application is processed into our system.
✓ All applicants who have submitted a complete application will receive notification detailing the required eSkills test prior to the Interview date.
✓ After completing the eSkills test, applicants will then be invited to a Committee Interview.
✓All applicants who complete the interview process will be evaluated and placed on an eligibility list for consideration into the apprenticeship program. Your name will remain on the eligibility list for two years.
✓You must be able to pass a 9-panel non-DOT drug test with “Negative” results before being dispatched.
The United Association apprenticeship program works to recruit high school students
Are you currently a high school student? How does earning money while you’re in school and not gathering debt sound? If this applies to you, apply today!
Women in the United Association Pipe Trades
Woman are finding success in careers with the UA of Journeyman and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe fitting Industry of the Unites States and Canada.
WHAT ARE OUR APPRENTICES SAYING
“This Apprenticeship exposes you to people with real field experience and has helped me build a career that will allow me to provide for my family for the rest of my life.”
“The apprenticeship exposed me to a lot of people in this trade. I was able to meet and build relationships with many others in my field.”
“The apprenticeship program at GWWPT, has exceeded my expectations with the amount of on-the-job training we receive.”
“The apprenticeship program at GWWPT, has a strong fellowship. Comradery is something I really like about being in this apprenticeship.”
“I would recommend The apprenticeship program at GWWPT because you can earn while you learn. Good opportunity for someone who is ready to apply themselves and work hard.”