Apprentices

Journey Workers

Apprenticeship Program

Students build and erect a frame for the wall of a home, under the supervision of a journey-level instructor.

Apprenticeship Benefits at a Glance Outstanding wages and medical coverage Family benefits including medical, legal service plan, auto insurance and many others Steady work Challenging projects Retirement investment plan

Apprentices take courses through the University of Hawai`i's community college system and must have at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under the watchful supervision of journey-level carpenters. Graduates of the program receive a certificate of completion from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters International Office and the Workforce Development Division of the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.

Both the Carpenters and Drywall apprenticeship programs require physical labor of eight or more hours a day, five days a week. Becoming a carpenter or drywall apprentice is a long-term commitment requiring dedication, patience and the willingness to learn a valuable trade. This program provides participants with an invaluable educational experience, outstanding benefits and steadfast contractual protection on the job.

Minimum Qualifications to Enter the Program

• Must be at least seventeen (17) years of age
• Must be able to lift 75 pounds for the Carpenters program or lift 100 pounds for the Drywall program
• Be able to perform the essential duties of the trade
• Pass a basic math test
• Pass a personal interview
• Complete a three-day, 24-hour pre-selection screening
• Attend an apprenticeship orientation called "Indenturing"

In addition, the Hawai`i Carpenters Union enforces a zero-tolerance drug policy.

Open Enrollment

On O`ahu, recruitment is held twice yearly. During open enrollment periods, individuals must apply in person at the Apprenticeship and Training Office located on the 2nd floor of the Hawai`i Carpenters Union Hall at 1311 Houghtailing Street. To apply, simply contact us for the specific enrollment dates. A 24-hour apprenticeship recruitment recording will provide applicants the necessary tools to apply.

For recruitment schedules on the neighbor islands, please contact the respective offices.