Apprenticeships get more respect - AP/CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa
The curriculum includes subjects such as interpersonal communication that are important on the job site, but often are overlooked in traditional vocational courses. 'The total package -- that's what we need,' said Mike Machula, training coordinator for the Plumbers and Steamfitters in Cedar Rapids.
Machula said union contractors increasingly want plumbers who can use computerized welding equipment and computer software that tracks materials, man hours and project milestones. They also want plumbers with customer-pleasing communication skills.
Finding better qualified candidates is expected to help unions improve apprentice graduation rates, which already are much better than college graduation rates.