Construction Education FAQ
Common Questions About ABC Institute in South Florida
1. What Is Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship Programs are approved by the Florida Department of Education and U.S. Department of Labor. Apprenticeship is a structured training system in which the apprentice (student) works full-time (40 hours per week) during the day for a sponsoring employer, learning the skills of the trade (through On-the-Job Training with a journey worker/mentor). Apprentices earn a progressively higher minimum wage (if they are not already earning it) as their skills increase (usually every 6 months).
2. How Much Does the Apprenticeship Training Cost?
There are no tuition fees for registered apprentices. The only costs would be the tools, books, and materials needed for the trade.
3. What Are the Trades That You Have Available and How Long Is the Program?
The ABC Institute currently offers training in 6 trades (electrical, fire sprinkler, HVAC, line erector, plumbing, and roofing) which take 3-4 years to complete. New programs are started as the need exists.
4. Why Are the Programs So Long?
Becoming the safest and most skilled professional in your trade takes extensive knowledge and experience. State and federal standards, therefore, require a minimum of 144 hours of related classroom instruction plus 2,000 hours of on-the-job training per year.
5. What Type of Certificates Will Do I Receive?
Upon successful completion of each related program/year, you will receive the following nationally recognized credentials.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10 card.
ABC Institute Certificate of Promotion
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), Certificate.
Upon final completion, you will receive a certificate from the Florida Department of Education and U.S. Department of Labor.
Additional credentials/certifications may be received depending on the trade enrolled in.
6. Will You Help Find Me a Job?
We are the largest contractor organization in Florida with hundreds of employers looking to hire trade professionals. ABC Institute also has a full-time career service coordinator who will assist you with job referrals and set you up to interview with contractors.
7. What Is the Enrollment Process Like?
You will need your driver’s license or state ID, social security, and residency documents if applicable.
It will take about 45 minutes to fill out an application which includes an entry-level assessment consisting of reading, writing and math exercises.
No high school diploma is required.
There is no application fee for the apprenticeship program.
8. How Long Does It Take to Be Sponsored?
It varies by the contractor and/or participating employer. Some may sponsor you immediately while others may wait until your employment probation period is over.
9. When Will I Know That I Have Been Accepted?
For apprenticeship, acceptance is pending approval from the Participating Employer and/or Committee. You will be notified immediately once this approval is obtained. For entry-level programs, your acceptance is contingent on receiving a completed application, the necessary documentation, and payment.
10. Do You Have Any Special Incentives for Veterans?
ABC Institute is an approved training provider for the Department of Veteran Affairs, Benefits Division so you may use your GI Bill. Should you be approved by the VA you will be able to receive monthly monetary benefits by becoming an apprentice.
Do You Know?
Registered Apprenticeship (RA) graduates have substantially higher earnings than non-participants over the course of their careers, estimated in excess of over $300,000 (including benefits).
Resource: http://www.fldoe.org/