Natural gas is a foundation fuel for the nation’s clean and secure energy future.  It is the cleanest burning fossil fuel and remains one of the most affordable home-heating fuels as well as having the ability to deliver high temperatures required for heavy industries. Modernization of facilities and maintenance efforts are critical to enhance efficiency, reliability, and safety for utility customers.

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There is significant oversight and regulations focused on the natural gas industry to help ensure public safety. The U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) sets federal safety standards for pipelines that guide the work contractors are required to do. Journeyman perform these duties primarily outside and in conditions that can be challenging. The occupation can also require extensive travel.

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The Fitter Apprenticeship Program is designed to develop Journeyman over an approximate two-year period through both on-the-job (OJT) and classroom training. 

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OJT work hours are obtained through employment with a member contractor.  Apprentices will work with Journeymen to inspect natural gas distribution lines; perform regular maintenance and repairs; perform preventive maintenance; and install new natural gas infrastructure. The apprentice is expected to conduct all job duties with safety as the number one priority, by participating in and promoting a culture of safety and compliance with policies and procedures. The apprentice needs to be able to work well with others including utility employees and utility customers.  The apprentice must possess the ability to accept changing priorities in work assignments and must be willing to travel.

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Apprentices will be expected to complete Online coursework, attend structured classroom training, and maintain all required certifications. The online coursework is proctored at the training center.  Classroom trainings are typically held one weekend a month on Saturday and Sunday.

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Apprentices will enter the program as a Step 1. Apprentices may advance every six months if all requirements have been met. Apprentice pay is determined by Step and calculated by a percentage of the Journeyman rate as outlined in the respective Collective Bargaining Agreement. 

 

Apprentices entering the Training Program having a CDL will start at the Step 2 wages.

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Current Journeyman Wage: ranges from $35.76 to $43.77 (as of 9-1-24)

• 1st Step 500 hours ranges from 60% to 70% of Journeyman Wage

• 2nd Step 1000 hours ranges from 70% to 75% of Journeyman Wage

• 3rd Step 1500 hours 80% of Journeyman Wage

• 4th Step 2000 hours 90% of Journeyman Wage

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MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

An applicant must be at least 18 years of age and provide the following:

• $25.00 application fee (non-refundable)

• Completed Application

• High School or GED Transcript with graduation date or two-year Associates Degree or higher

• One credit of Algebra or higher math course

• Valid Driver's License (Note: a Class A Commercial Driver's License will need to be obtained once in the program)

• DOT Medical Certification

• Current DMV Driving Record (must be within 30 days of applying)