Trades spotlight power of apprenticeship

Construction try-a-trade event shares value of apprenticeship pathways for high school students

ELMA, WA (October 7, 2024) — Registered union apprenticeship is a tried and true path to stable careers and economic security for many working folks — but only if they know about it. Trades unions tackled that awareness gap in an event last week in Elma, Washington giving high school students the opportunity to get some hands-on experience with a trade that could change their lives.

Tony Antonelli (Greater Western Washington Pipe Trades) demonstrates some tools of the trade for students. Photo: WSLC

Approximately 1,000 students participated in Tuesday’s event, touring unions’ booths, talking with current apprentices and journeymen about their trade, and trying their hand at a few skills. Union representatives explained how their trade figures into construction, as well as guidance on CTE classes to best prepare students for a career in the construction industry, and the process to apply for an apprenticeship.

Richard Cinert, Alisea Tapia, Stephanie Solorio, Robyn Funk, Geraldo Ceballos, Lisa Forsberg, Brandon Sujka & Clint Bryson of IBEW 76 pose for a photo in front of their booth. Photo: WSLC

More than 18 trades participated: Boilermakers, Bricklayers & Allied Crafts, Carpet Layers, Cement Masons & Plasterers, Drywall Finishers, Electricians, Elevator Constructors, Glaziers, Heat & Frost Insulators, Ironworkers, Laborers, Operating Engineers, Painters, Plumbers & Pipe Fitters, Roofers & Waterproofers, Sheet Metal Workers, Sprinkler Fitters, and Teamsters.

Darryl Defilippo, Kevin Nations, Connor Wolfe, Farron Austin & Jeff Reinhardt with Western Washington Sheet Metal Workers pose for a photo at their booth. Photo: WSLC

More information about registered apprenticeship programs and how to get started in Washington State is available from the Washington State Building & Construction Trades Council.