Come On In: Making Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Attractive in Rural Areas

Abstract

Commute distance to class, fewer local work options, isolation from other members, unfamiliarity, and other factors can make the commitment to apprenticeship and industry association less attractive in rural areas.In the interest of preparing for union sheet metal industry growth, this paper explores effective ways to arrange for and encourage sheet metal apprentice training and work in outlying areas. The intent is to allow apprenticeship to help in rural signatory job development, rather than be seen as a roadblock, due to unfamiliarity and arrangements difficult for those in distant areas to meet.Survey analysis shows industry preference for apprentice work evaluations by the direct supervisor, changing work processes as minimum hours in each type are achieved. Employers, apprentices, and instructors were all overwhelmingly in favor of concentrated weeks of daytime related classes for apprentices in distant areas. Job development was valued just as important as recruiting candidates.Recommendations made are based on increased emphasis on communication and evaluation of the apprentices in distant areas, implementation of concentrated weeks of daytime training for distant apprentices, and use of local community centers supportive of apprenticeship goals to enhance local connections and outreach.