Apprenticeship
Receive paid on-the-job training

With an apprenticeship through CITC, you will receive formal classroom training without the cost of tuition, and you won’t have to wait until you’ve graduated to begin your career. You will have the opportunity to work with first-class employers to receive paid on-the-job training while under the direct supervision of experienced journey-level workers. With this combination training, you learn the “how” and “why” of your trade by applying what you learn in the classroom to the real world.

Technological advances have created new improvements, ideas, and processes. The construction industry is in need of individuals with a complete knowledge of the practical and technical aspects of their trade. Regardless of the trade you choose, CITC’s apprenticeship training will prepare you for a career in which individual ability and skill is recognized and rewarded.

Apprenticeship Programs

Carpentry Apprentices will learn how to construct, erect, install, and repair structures and fixtures for wood, plywood, and wallboard, using carpenter’s hand tools and power tools through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). The Carpentry Program requires 8,000 OJT hours and 640 RSI hours (160 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s carpentry program you must furnish the following documents:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades

After submitting the application and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Carpentry Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Commercial Inside Wireman Apprentices will learn how to install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that works is in accordance with relevant codes through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). Work may involve: installation or service of street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems. The Electrical Program requires 8,000 OJT hours and 800 RSI hours (200 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s Commercial Inside Wireman Program you will need to show the following:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades
  • Algebra requirement of a ‘C’ average or better
  • Successfully complete the Scheig Test ($35) administered by CITC.

After submitting the applications and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Electrical Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Apply Here for the Electrical: 01 Commercial Inside Wireman Program

Residential Electrical (02) Apprentices will learn how to install wiring and troubleshoot electrical problems in single family and multi-family residences. Those who work in new-home construction install lights, outlets and provide access to power where needed. Those who work in maintenance and remodeling typically repair and replace faulty equipment. For example, if a circuit breaker repeatedly trips after being reset, electricians determine the reason and fix it. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (Related Supplemental Instruction [RSI]). Work may involve: reading blueprints or technical diagrams, install and maintain wiring, control, and lighting systems, inspect electrical components, such as circuit breakers, identify electrical problems with a variety of testing devices, repair or replace wiring, equipment, or fixtures using hand tools and power tools. The residential electrical program requires 4,000 hours of OJT and 400 hours of RSI (200 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s Residential Electrical Program you will need to show the following:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades
  • Algebra requirement of a ‘C’ average or better
  • Successfully complete the Scheig Test ($35) administered by CITC

After submitting the applications and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Electrical Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Apply Here for the Electrical 02: Residential Wireman Program

Low Voltage Electrical (06) Apprentices will learn to install, maintain, replace and repair electrical systems and equipment of under 50 volts including protective signaling systems (fire alarm, nurse call, and security), communications systems (data telecommunications, intercom and paging) and specialized control systems (HVAC, medical, boiler, clock and instrumentation). Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (Related Supplemental Instruction [RSI]). Work may involve: reading blueprints or technical diagrams, install and maintain low voltage wiring, lighting control systems, inspect electrical components, identify low voltage electrical problems with a variety of testing devices. The low voltage electrical program requires 4,800 hours of OJT and 200 hours of RSI per year up to 601.5 to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s Low Voltage Electrical Program you will need to show the following:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades
  • Algebra requirement of a ‘C’ average or better
  • Successfully complete the Scheig Test ($35) administered by CITC

After submitting the applications and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Electrical Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Apply Here for the Electrical: 06 Low Energy/Sound & Communication Technician Program

Glazier Apprentices will learn how to cut, install, and remove glass of all kinds through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). The Glazier Program requires 8,000 OJT hours and 640 RSI hours (160 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s glazier program you must furnish the following documents:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades

After submitting the application and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Glazier Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) Apprentices will learn how to operate several types of power construction equipment, such as motor graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors, or front-end loaders to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). Work may involve: repair and maintenance of equipment in addition to other duties. The HEO Program requires 6,000 OJT hours and 480 RSI hours (160 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s HEO Program you will need to show the following:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED (a waiver for this is given if an applicant can show proof that they have 2 or more years of experience in the construction industry
  • Valid Washington State Driver License
  • Successfully complete the Scheig Test ($35) administered by CITC.

After submitting the applications and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the HEO Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Apprentices will learn how to install, service, and repair heating and air conditioning systems in residential and commercial establishments through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). The HVAC Program requires 8,000 OJT hours and 800 RSI hours (200 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s HVAC Program you will need to show the following:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades

After submitting the applications and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the HVAC Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Laborer Apprentices will perform tasks involving physical labor at construction sites. Laborers may operate hand and power tools of all types: air hammers, earth tampers, cement mixers, small mechanical hoists, surveying and measuring equipment, and a variety of other equipment and instruments. They may clean and prepare sites, dig trenches, set braces to support the sides of excavations, erect scaffolding, and clean up rubble, debris and other waste materials.

Laborer Apprentices will learn tasks related to their craft through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). The Laborer Program requires 6,000 OJT hours and 480 RSI hours (160 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s Construction Craft Laborers Program you must furnish the following documents:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades
  • Valid Driver License

After submitting the applications and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Laborer Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Apply Here for the Construction Craft Laborers Program

Painting Apprentices will learn how to paint walls, equipment, building, bridges, and other structural surfaces, using brushes, roller, and spray guns through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). Work may involve: removal of old paint to prepare surface prior to painting, and mixing colors or oils to obtain desired color or consistency. The Painting Program requires 6,000 OJT hours and 480 RSI hours (160 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s Painting Program you must furnish the following documents:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades

After submitting the applications and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Painting Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Apply Here for the Painting Program

Plumbing Apprentices will learn how to assemble, install, and repair pipes, fittings, and fixtures of heating, water, and drainage systems, according to specifications and plumbing codes through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). The Plumbing Program requires 10,000 OJT hours and 1,080 RSI hours (216 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s Plumbing Program you must furnish the following documents:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades
  • Algebra requirement of a ‘C’ average or better
  • Geometry requirement of a ‘C’ average or better
  • Successfully complete the Scheig Test ($35) administered by CITC.

After submitting the applications and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Plumbing Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Scaffold Erector Apprentices will learn how to set up and dismantle temporary scaffold. Scaffold erectors will construct various types of scaffold to access specific areas of a building or structure, including piping, ducting, and other objects in the commercial, industrial, maritime, and residential realms through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). The Scaffold Erector Program requires 8,000 OJT hours and 640 RSI hours (160 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s scaffold erector program you must furnish the following documents:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades

After submitting the application and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Scaffold Erector Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

Sheet Metal Apprentices will learn to fabricate, assemble, install, and repair sheet metal products and equipment, such as ducts, control boxes, drainpipes, and furnace casings through on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom training (related supplemental instruction (RSI)). Work may involve: setting up and operating fabricating machines to cut, bend, and straighten sheet metal; shaping metal over anvils, blocks, or forms using a hammer; operating soldering and welding equipment to join sheet metal parts; inspecting, assembling, and smoothing seams and joints of burred surfaces. The Sheet Metal Program requires 9,000 OJT hours and 800 RSI hours (200 per year) to complete.

To qualify for CITC’s Sheet Metal Program you must furnish the following documents:

  • Proof of age (must be 18 or older)
  • Proof of high school graduation or GED
  • Official transcript(s) showing courses and grades
  • Successfully complete the Scheig Test ($35) administered by CITC.

After submitting the applications and required documents, you will be scheduled for an interview with the Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Committee. If you pass the interview, you will be placed in an employment eligibility pool. Once you begin working for a participating employer, you become a CITC registered apprentice.

EEO STATEMENT
CITC programs are open to the public. CITC encourages diversity and accepts applications from all minority populations. CITC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability. CITC acknowledges that information pertaining to an applicant’s disability is personal and confidential. If the information is presented, CITC will reasonably attempt to provide accommodation to overcome the effects of the limitation of the qualified applicant. All inquiries about accommodations should be made to the Lead Office Administrator/Registrar upon registration into the program. Some programs may require medical documentation due to the rigors of the program. CITC operates under FERPA Statute 20 USC Section 1232 and regulation 34 CFR Part 99.

If the trade you are interested in applying for is currently closed, and you would like to be notified when the trade reopens, click here to submit your contact information to be added to a waitlist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Trainee?

A trainee is an individual who is not registered with the Apprenticeship Section of the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Trainees may attend classes at CITC as a vocational student; however, they are not employed by a CITC Training Agent as a state registered apprentice and do not receive formal on-the-job training.

What is an Apprentice?

An apprentice is an aspiring trades professional who is registered in an approved apprenticeship program and works for an employer [a qualified Training Agent] to learn a trade. Looking back in history, an apprentice was legally bound to a expert craftsman to learn a trade.

Apprenticeship is also the oldest method of training used to learn a skilled trade. Today, apprenticeships are a combination of on-the-job training (OJT) and classroom instruction (RSI – related supplemental instruction). Apprentices learn the technical skills of their trade through formal classroom training and learn the hands-on skills through supervised on-the-job training.

Trainee or Apprentice - What is the Difference?

There are two types of trainees and only one is an apprentice. An apprentice is a trainee who is registered in a Washington State approved apprenticeship program under RCW 49.04. Apprenticeship programs are formalized training programs regulated by the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council. If you are a trainee who is not registered with an apprenticeship program, you are not an apprentice. CITC offers 12 different apprenticeship training programs. To view a list of apprenticeship programs sponsored by CITC, click here.

What is a CITC Registered Apprentice?

A CITC apprentice is an individual who has been accepted into one of CITC’s twelve apprenticeship programs and is registered with the Apprenticeship Section of the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. A CITC apprentice is employed by a CITC Training Agent to receive their on-the-job training (OJT) which is monitored by their respective apprenticeship committee.

Upon completing your apprenticeship, you will receive an Apprenticeship Completion Certificate from the Apprenticeship Section of the Department of Labor and Industries and will be recognized as a qualified journey-level worker nationwide. This certificate is one of the oldest, and most highly portable, industry credentials in use today.

What is a journey-level worker?

A journey-level worker is a highly experienced individual who is recognized by a state or federal registration agency, and/or an industry, as fully qualified to perform the skills of their trade. A journey-level worker has sufficient knowledge and skill of their trade received through formal apprenticeship training or practical work experience.

I am a veteran, can I use my veteran's benefits while enrolled in the apprenticeship program?

Yes, Veteran Administration benefits are available to state registered apprentices. If you would like to learn more about the process for using your veteran’s benefits while enrolled in the apprenticeship program, please contact the CITC Apprenticeship Department at 877.428.0442.

Are there provisions in CITC’s standards that allow Veterans to bypass the application process?

Yes, military veterans who are involved in Helmets to Hardhats and/or have completed military technical training specific to the trade the veteran is applying, may be given direct entry.