YOUR CONSTRUCTION CAREER STARTS HERE

No Degree Required. No Debt. Just Skills.

Washington State’s construction industry needs workers. Apprenticeships pay you from day one while you master a trade that lasts a lifetime.

Ready to build your future?

Explore career options, find apprenticeship programs, and discover why thousands of people choose construction careers in Washington State every year.

The Power of Apprenticeships

The Numbers Tell the Story Construction apprenticeships create real opportunities for real people. Here's what the data shows about why apprenticeships in Washington State work:

Strong Earning Power

  • Electricians earn an average salary of $96,530 in Washington State, with top earners making over $133,000. Journey-level electricians on public works projects earn $84-$119/hour.

  • Plumbers and Pipefitters earn an average of $79,070 in Washington, with experienced workers earning $139,000+. Journey-level plumbers on public works projects earn $74-$111/hour.

  • Carpenters in Washington average $73,260/year and up to $111,840, according to O*NET. Welders average $61,730 and can make up to $83,300/year.

  • Median pay is higher for full-time construction workers who are union members, with a median wage $23,556/year higher compared to nonunion construction workers.

In Washington State

Financial Success Happens Faster

  • Apprentices start earning from day one, while college students rack up debt

  • Apprentice graduates earn more of their lifetime compared to peers who don’t complete an apprenticeship

  • Nationally, the average apprentice earns a starting salary of $80,000 after they complete an apprenticeship program. Washington apprentices make more.

Real Benefits, Real Security

  • Every registered apprenticeship in Washington includes:

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • Retirement plans and pension benefits

  • Paid vacation time

  • Job placement assistance

  • Ongoing professional development

apprenticeship in their own words

“For anyone wondering whether they can succeed in the construction industry, my advice is simple: just go for it. The industry offers a living wage for hard workers who pay attention and take pride in their work.”

–Laura Soma, GLY Construction

“I spent a lot of my life in a comfort zone and not testing my limits. This apprenticeship drew me out of my comfort zone to get me to test my limits.”

–Robert Arce, Ironworkers apprentice

“For anyone who isn't afraid of challenging work, who’s ready to focus and give 100% and commit to a career path, there is a home for you in the Trades.”

–Alex Grage, Exxel Pacific, Inc.

The construction industry is, “moving away from that gruff, berating kind of environment to one of training and inclusivity, like, ‘Let's help you figure this out.’ That doesn’t mean expectations are lower. You still have to put in the effort, take responsibility, problem-solve, and be proactive. But if you’re willing to learn and show up ready to work, there’s absolutely a place for you.”

-Kalin Magruder, Sellen Construction

“Having a career path, instead of just a job has been really beneficial to making me feel set in a direction in life.”

–Kimber Jackson, Sheet Metal apprentice

Construction apprenticeships offer something special: you start earning money on your first day while learning valuable skills. In Washington State, 80% of apprentices work in building and construction trades like carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and more.

Here's what makes apprenticeships different:

Why Apprenticeships Rock

Start earning immediately

No waiting until after graduation

Get paid to learn

Wages increase every 6 months as your skills grow

No student debt

Training is free or low-cost

Great benefits

Medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans

Nationally recognized credential

Your journey card opens doors across the country