Jeff Nobers

Build Your Career.  Build Our Region.

It is often said that college is not for everybody. That is true, and construction is not for everyone either. It takes a special commitment to excel in our industry, but if you accept and embrace the challenge, you will build a financially and personally rewarding career to be proud of.

Members of our Building Trade Unions and Contractors earn wages equal to, or greater than, an overwhelming majority of college graduates – six-figure earnings are common – along with exceptional health care coverage and retirement programs.

Of greatest importance, these careers and the skills associated with them, are in extremely high demand throughout our region. No, construction is not for everyone, but you certainly owe it to yourself to see if this rewarding career is right for you!

Regardless of your educational background or work experience, the Joint Apprenticeship Training Centers (JATC) offered by the region’s construction trade unions and contractor associations will put you on the path to becoming a skilled trade professional. And unlike college or for-profit trade schools there is no cost you, and you get paid with benefits during your training.

In the Pittsburgh region, there are 16 JATC’s offering more than thirty programs. Nowhere in the country will someone from Western Pennsylvania who is interested in construction find better, more up-to-date training than right here!

Our Apprentices earn livable wages – far above minimum wage and equal to those of many college graduates – as well as health care coverage and pension benefits. There is minimal classroom time during the three-to-five-year average training period, as most training takes place on the job working alongside experienced crafts persons (journeypersons).

To be considered for our program’s applicants must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED, possess a valid driver's license, have personal transportation, and be drug-free. Applicants must also generally possess strong math skills, primarily in algebra and geometry, as most programs require a passing score on an aptitude test to gain an interview with both union and contractor representatives.

The area's joint apprenticeship schools offer significant, and in some cases, life-changing opportunities every year. They are a great educational resource for our region. We encourage you to investigate our programs and apply.

Jeff Nobers
Executive Director