To apply for the apprenticeship program, please go to https://wtxjatc.org/applicants. There you will find instructions on how to apply. The minimum requirements for the program are: minimum 17 to apply, 18 years old to work (there is no maximum age limit), documentation of high school completion or GED (or higher) that shows completion of one full year of algebra with a passing grade, and a valid driver's license. Once a completed application is received, along with necessary documentation, we would schedule you to take an aptitude test. The test covers math and reading comprehension. Assuming you pass the test, we would then schedule you for an interview with our committee. The result of this process will hopefully place you high on our ranking list, from which applicants are selected in order of their ranking. If accepted we would place you with an inside contractor as soon as a position becomes available and classes would start as soon as possible.
The current starting wage for Amarillo is $15.24/hr and for Lubbock/Midland is $13.55/hr. In addition to the wage, there is medical, dental, vision, prescription insurance for apprentices and their dependents. Three retirement benefits are also included. With the first, the contribution starts immediately. With the second, the contribution starts at the end of the first year. And the third one starts when an individual joins the union. The program is scheduled on a 5 year format, but an apprentice can fast track and get done in as little as 4 years.
Right now we are not conducting classes in the Midland area as there are no apprentices there. We are hoping to change that in the near future. The classroom schedule is a fixed schedule and apprentices go to school 4 hours a night, once per week. The day of the week varies by location and year of apprenticeship. The work schedule is generally Monday to Friday 8 AM to 4:30 PM with a 30 minute lunch. The schedule can change depending on the job location.
If you have any further questions about the program, please reach out.
