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Trades and
Apprenticeships

Trades are careers that often associated with building and construction. They also involve apprenticeships to be completed prior to the start of the career, which is an extended, compensated training that is usually run through the specific trade unions of that career. 

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Apprenticeships programs can vary in length from 1-6 years, and the average length is about 4 years. A combination of classroom and on-the-job training is needed to complete the apprenticeship. 

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Painters and Glaziers

Description

- Painters: 

      Painters apply paint, stain, varnish and other finishes to buildings and other structures. They choose the right paint or finish for the surface to be covered, taking into account customers’ wishes, durability, ease of handling, and the method of application. They first prepare the surface to be covered so the paint will adhere properly. This may require removing the old coat by stripping, sanding, wire brushing, burning or water and abrasive blasting. Painters also wash walls and trim to remove dirt and grease, fill nail holes and cracks, sand rough spots, and brush off dust. On new surfaces, they apply a primer or sealer to prepare the finishing coat. Painters also mix paints and match colors, relying on knowledge of paint composition and color harmony. Paperhangers cover walls and ceilings with decorative wall coverings made of paper, vinyl, or fabric. They first prepare the surface to be covered by applying “sizing,” which seals the surface and makes the covering stick better. When redecorating, they may first remove the old covering by soaking, steaming, or applying solvents. When necessary, they patch holes and take care of other imperfections before hanging the new wall covering.

- Glaziers:

     Glass serves many uses in modern buildings. Glaziers install glass in windows, skylights, and other fixtures in storefronts and buildings.  Insulated and specially treated glass keeps in warm or cooled air and provides good condensation and sound control qualities. Tempered and laminated glass makes doors and windows more secure. In large commercial buildings, glass panels give skyscrapers a distinctive look while reducing the need for artificial lighting. The creative uses of large windows, glass doors, skylights, and sunrooms make homes bright, airy, and inviting.

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Wages: Median pay is $17.59 per hour or $36, 580 per year for painters and $18.96 per hour or $39,440 per year for glaziers

 

Potential Careers in this Trade: Journeyman, Foreman, Supervisor, Owner

Application Process

General Requirements: Applicant must be 18 years of age. Applicants must provide a birth certificate, high school diploma or GED, and Social Security card.  Applicants must have a valid driver’s license at time of application. Must be physically fit to perform the work of the trade. A physician's statement may be required prior to admission to the program. Exam costs will be paid by the applicant.

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Application Process: Complete application along with all general requirements. Upon completion of the application, a copy of the contractor list is given in which the applicant must obtain a Letter of Intent to Hire before he/she is eligible to enroll into the apprentice program.

 

Applications are available on a year-round basis at:

940 California Avenue

Collinsville, IL 62234

618-345-6646

or at

18036 Eads Avenue

Chesterfield, Mo 63005

636-733-2325

Between the hours of 8am and 3pm

or at a District Council Representative in your area.

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Contact Information

Contact Info: Wendy Wurtz, 940 California Ave., Collinsville, IL 62234; 618-345-6646; www.dc58iupat.net; Email: wendyw@dc58.org

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Local Union 363: Chad Anderson (Business Representative) 3301 N. Boardwalk Dr. Champaign, IL 61826. 217-356-9114

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