The Plumbers & Fitters UA Local Union 675’s training in Pearl City and Iwilei, are conducted in spacious facilities which feature state-of-the art “hands-on” equipment for plumbing, pipefitting, refrigeration, air conditioning, fire sprinkler systems, and welding.
Our workforce is thoroughly trained in technical skills, safety, health requirements and industry codes. On-going attention is given to improving training methods to ensure only the best possible protection for Hawaii’s consumers and fragile environment.
Plumbers & Fitters journeymen are offered “Skill Upgrading” courses on various code changes, drawing interpretation, job estimation, health/safety information, and hazardous waste operations and responses. New, “cutting-edge” curriculum highlights areas such as computer-aided drafting (CAD), direct digital control systems, orbital welding for high purity systems, plastic pipe fabrication, and much more. Certification programs in backflow prevention, medical gas, CFC and HAZWOPER training are also available.
Local 675 apprentices are accepted only after a rigorous testing and selection process. Each apprentice undergoes a five-year program consisting of 10,000 work hours plus ten semesters of related classroom instruction coupled with manipulative, hands-on training.
The Plumbers & Fitters commitment to excellence also extends to all course instructors and trainers. Each instructor completes a five-year national trainers’ program conducted by the United Association. Beyond instruction of the mere basics of the trade, the UA Instructor Training Program offers training in emerging industry techniques, equipment, and skills.
The superior quality of UA Local 675’s training program was nationally recognized in 1995 for “Outstanding Achievement in Apprenticeship Training.” A blue ribbon selection committee drawn from the U.S. Department of Labor, the Bureau of Apprenticeship Training, the National Association of State and Territorial Apprenticeship Directors, and the Federal Committee on Apprenticeship, chose the Plumbers & Fitters UA Local Union 675’s apprenticeship program as one of only three nationwide to be so honored.
How can I become an apprentice?
Apprenticeship openings depend on the need for apprentices in the plumbing industry. Applications are accepted only during a recruitment period. Applicants who apply must meet minimum entry requirements:
- Must be at least 18-years of age.
- Provide evidence of being a high school graduate or have a General Educational development (G.E.D.) certificate of equivalent.
- Provide “official” transcript of high school records, and transcript of trade school courses, if any.
- Show a valid driver’s license.
- Be physically fit to perform the duties of the specific trade.
- Take a Math Skills Evaluation test and satisfactorily pass with a minimum score of 70-percent.