Apprenticeship Program
A registered apprenticeship offers a career path that combines classroom learning with hands-on experience in the field. Instead of spending years only in school, you earn while you learn—building real skills that lead directly to a stable career in the trades.
What Is a Registered Apprenticeship?
A registered apprenticeship program is a structured career pathway that combines:
Classroom Instruction
for technical education
On-the-Job Training
for real-world experience
Paid Employment
With an approved employer sponsor like Dave Jones
Apprentices gain valuable experience in plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or fire protection systems, building in-demand skills that employers need across Wisconsin.
What Sets Dave Jones Apart
Dave Jones offers one of the most robust trade apprenticeship programs in Wisconsin, providing unmatched opportunities for career growth.
Apprenticeships available across four in-demand trades:
- Plumbing apprenticeships
- Heating & cooling (HVAC) apprenticeships
- Fire protection apprenticeships
- Electrical apprenticeships
One of the largest apprenticeship programs through ABC of Wisconsin
140+ active apprentices currently enrolled
With multiple career paths under one roof, you can explore different trades and find the right fit—all while gaining paid, hands-on experience.
How the Apprenticeship Program Works
All apprentices begin as laborers, giving them firsthand exposure to daily job responsibilities in the field.
This approach helps you:
- Learn what a career in the skilled trades is really like
- Develop foundational job skills
- Work alongside experienced professionals
How to apply for an apprenticeship:
- Visit our CAREERS PAGE
- Apply for a pre-apprentice position in Wisconsin
- Complete the interview process (held twice per year)
Starting as a laborer is the first step toward a long-term career in construction trades, HVAC, plumbing, or electrical work.
Youth Apprenticeships
Youth apprenticeships are available to high school juniors and seniors. An employer like Dave Jones will hire them for a one year, or two-year apprenticeship. During the program, the student continues toward high school graduation and takes courses related to the profession, while gaining real on-the-job experience with the employer as well. Many of our Youth Apprentices continue their careers with Dave Jones after high school.
In the time it takes to get a 4-year degree, you could be years into an apprenticeship with steady pay. What’s more, you’ll have career advancement opportunities, job security, and no college debt. If you have a hard time picturing yourself working indoors year-round, or sitting behind a desk, a career in the trades may be perfect for you!
Students – click here to learn more about becoming a Youth Apprentice!
Teachers – click here to contact our team about visiting your school!
What is an apprenticeship at Dave Jones?
A Dave Jones apprenticeship is a paid career pathway that combines hands-on training, mentorship, and classroom education. Apprentices work alongside experienced professionals while learning the skills needed to build a successful career in the trades.
We offer opportunities in Plumbing, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning), Electrical, and Fire Protection.
Where will I work?
Dave Jones serves customers and manages projects throughout Southern Wisconsin, with most opportunities located in the Madison and Milwaukee areas.
Work environments may include:
• Residential homes
• Commercial buildings
• Healthcare facilities
• Schools and universities
• Manufacturing facilities
• Construction job sites
Do I need experience to apply?
No experience is necessary. We look for individuals who:
-Have a strong work ethic
-Show up ready to learn
-Enjoy working with their hands
-Have a positive attitude
-Want to build a long-term career
We’ll help teach you the technical skills on our state of the art Training & Development Center.
Will I get paid while I learn?
Yes. Apprentices earn a paycheck from day one while gaining valuable skills and experience. As you progress through your training and complete apprenticeship requirements, your wages increase.
Do apprentices receive benefits?
Yes, full-time apprentices receive full benefits, including:
-Health insurance
-Dental insurance
-Vision insurance
-Retirement savings opportunities
-Paid time off
-Ongoing training and development
How long does an apprenticeship take?
How long does an apprenticeship take?
What does a typical day look like for an apprentice?
A typical day may include:
-Working alongside experienced journeymen and foremen
-Learning industry tools, techniques, and safety procedures
-Assisting with installations, repairs, inspections, and maintenance
-Reading blueprints and project plans
-Serving customers and supporting project teams
Will I have a mentor?
Yes. Apprentices work closely with experienced Dave Jones team members who provide guidance, training, and support throughout the program.
We believe some of the best learning happens on the job, side-by-side with skilled professionals.
Is safety a priority?
Absolutely. Safety is one of our core values. Apprentices receive safety training and are taught industry best practices before performing job-specific tasks.
We are committed to providing a safe and supportive work environment for every employee.
What are the requirements for Youth Apprenticeships?
Requirements generally include:
• Being a high school junior or senior
• Meeting Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship program requirements
• Maintaining good attendance
• Demonstrating professionalism and reliability
• Having access to transportation
Specific requirements may vary by position.
Why choose a career in the skilled trades?
The skilled trades offer:
• Strong earning potential
• Career stability
• Opportunities for advancement
• Hands-on, meaningful work
• The chance to solve problems every day
• A career without the burden of significant college debt
Skilled trades professionals help build, maintain, and protect the communities where we live and work.
What opportunities are available after completing an apprenticeship?
Completing an apprenticeship can open doors to careers such as:
• Journeyman
• Lead Installer or Technician
• Foreman
• Service Manager
• Project Manager
• Estimator
• Operations or Leadership Roles
Many of our leaders started their careers in the trades.
Why choose Dave Jones for my apprenticeship?
Since 1977, Dave Jones has helped train and develop skilled trades professionals across Wisconsin. Our team works on a wide variety of residential, commercial, industrial, healthcare, and institutional projects, providing apprentices with diverse experiences and opportunities to grow.
When you join Dave Jones, you’re not just starting a job—you’re building a career with a team that’s invested in your success.
