Issue 1-09
Heavy and Highway Laborer Apprentices
The CAWP Apprenticeship and Training Committee has taken an active role in working with the Union apprenticeship programs to achieve the goal of providing the best trained workforce to CAWP members. In a time when the heavy and highway construction industry is experiencing a skilled workforce shortage, the CAWP Apprenticeship and Training Committee is committed to promoting the hiring of Union apprentices. It is important for contractors to utilize apprentices so that they have the experience and skills necessary to build a successful career, and to replenish the current aging workforce.
As a result of meetings between the Committee and the training administrators of the Union apprenticeship programs, it was agreed to provide CAWP Contractors notice when a new apprenticeship class has completed their introductory training and is ready to enter the workforce.
As such, the Western Pennsylvania Laborers Training Program currently has 40 apprentices available for work. Laborer Apprentices have passed a written selection exam followed by a thorough interview and substance abuse test. Upon selection, apprentices receive two weeks of orientation and training at the Laborers’ Training Center in Saxonburg, PA.
During orientation and training, apprentices receive classroom certifications including OSHA 10 Hour, PennDOT Flagging/Traffic Control, 8-Hour Scaffold, 4-Hour Hazardous Communication and First Aid/CPR/AED. Apprentices also receive hands-on training in Rod Tying, Cutting and Burning, Air/Compaction Tools, and Concrete Procedures.
Contractors benefit from utilizing apprentices by being able to pay apprentice wages, while at the same time improving the quality of the future workforce by providing on-the-job training. The wage and fringe benefit rates for a western Pennsylvania Laborers Apprentice are as follows:
If you are interested in employing a Laborer Apprentice, please contact Mike Laquatra, Laborers Apprentice Coordinator, at 1-800-442-8868 or 724 352-2224.