Pre-Apprenticeship & Helper Programs
Pre-apprenticeship and helper programs prepare individuals for success in
a formal apprenticeship by providing foundational training, hands-on experience,
and essential job skills. These programs are perfect for those looking for a head
start or preparation before applying to a full apprenticeship.
Finisher Program
Helper & Safety Attendant Programs
Helper & Safety Attendant Programs
Construction Craft Labor
Pre-Apprenticeship Sponsorship
Pre-Apprenticeship Helper Program
Helper Program
Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 13 — Finisher Program
Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 13 provides an optional one-year program aimed at introducing participants to the trade as helpers for tile and marble masons through classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Base wages are $18.63/hr, plus benefits for a total package of $29.08/hr. Upon completion, wages increase to $31.05/hr plus benefits, for a total of $44.57/hr. Finishers may stay in the role or apply for the apprenticeship.
Boilermakers Lodge 549 — Helper & Safety Attendant Programs
Boilermakers Lodge 549 offers a Helper program for individuals to gain experience before applying for the apprenticeship. Helpers earn $33.65/hr, and after 500 hours of work, they can apply with competitive advantage for the apprenticeship. Benefits begin after 2,000 hours of on-the-job training. Applicants must pass a drug test and complete some initial classes. A Safety Attendant role is also available at the same wage, but it does not provide a direct path to apprenticeship. Interested individuals may sign up through the union.
IBEW Local 401 — Construction Wireman
The Construction Wireman (CW) program is an optional, entry-level position offered by the IBEW Local 401 designed to provide on-the-job training for those interested in becoming an Inside Wireman. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, legally authorized to work in the U.S., and have an OSHA 10 for Construction card. Applications are accepted at the Local 401 Union Hall in Reno (4635 Longley Ln #109), and applicants may need to attend an orientation or screening before placement.
Laborers Local 169 — Pre-Apprenticeship Sponsorship
Contractors may sponsor a pre-apprentice for up to 30 days before the individual enters the formal Laborers Local 169 apprenticeship program. This optional step provides exposure to laborer work on active job sites. Please contact Eloy Jara
at 775-856-0169 to learn more about the process.
NV Energy + IBEW 1245 — Pre-Apprentice Groundman
NV Energy currently offers an optional Pre-Apprentice Groundman (PAG) position designed to progress into a Lineman Apprenticeship. Individuals may be eligible to progress to a Lineman Apprenticeship in as little as six months after hire and are expected to progress into an apprenticeship within two apprenticeship job opening cycles. PAG base wages start at $35.93/hr. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and have completed the five required ACT WorkKeys exams before applying for a Pre-Apprenticeship job opening online at careers.nvenergy.com.
Sheet Metal Workers Local 26 — Pre-Apprenticeship Helper Program
Sheet Metal Workers Local 26 offers an optional pre-apprenticeship opportunity designed to introduce participants to the sheet metal trade as shop or field helpers. Applicants must be at least 18 years old to enroll. The pre-apprenticeship typically takes place prior to formal acceptance into the training center’s apprenticeship classes. Participation in the pre-apprenticeship is strongly encouraged, as it provides valuable insight into the nature and demands of sheet metal work. Interested individuals should contact the Local 26 Union Hall in Reno, NV (1819 Hymer Ave.) to enroll.
United Association Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 350 — Helper Program
United Association Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 350 offers an optional helper program for individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience. Helpers assist on job sites and can work in the role as long as they’d like. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, or 17 with parental consent, and apply in person at the Local 350 Union Hall in Sparks (1110 Greg St.). Base wages are $21.35/hr, with a full compensation package of $30.88/hr. While not a requirement for apprenticeship, the Helper program can be a valuable way to build skills and knowledge before applying to the Local 350 apprenticeship.