Apprenticeship Programs

The Training Center offers separate programs for Operating Engineers

The Training Center offers dedicated programs for Operating Engineers, designed to prepare apprentices for real-world work through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience.

 

Construction Apprentices

Within the construction apprenticeship program, the training center offers multiple career paths, including Universal Equipment Operator (UEO), Heavy Duty Repairer (HDR), Machinery Mover (MMR), and Technical Engineer (TE), sometimes referred to as construction surveyors.

Programs:
  • UEO – 4-year / 8,000-hour on-the-job training program
  • HDR, MMR, and TE – 3-year / 6,000-hour on-the-job training programs
2026 Apprentice Spring Session

Training Session March 16th – May 22nd, 2026

Your 2-week mandatory related training will be scheduled during this time frame. You, as well as your employer, will receive a notice to attend related training 30 days before your scheduled attendance. 
2026 Apprentice Fall Session

Training Session September 14th – November 20th, 2026

Your 2-week mandatory related training will be scheduled during this time frame. You, as well as your employer, will receive a notice to attend related training 30 days before your scheduled attendance. 

View Training Schedule

Stay up to date with upcoming training dates, class details, and important timelines. New schedules are posted as they become available.

Schedules

Learn How to Apply Today!

Becoming an apprentice is a three-step process.

Step 1

The Application

The Training Center typically accepts applications in the last two weeks of February, although this may not happen every year. When deciding whether to accept new applicants, the Training Center staff reviews upcoming industry needs to determine whether it is time to bring in new apprentices.

The application, interview, and pre-apprentice training are all handled in a similar way. The two minimum requirements to apply are that the individual must be over 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.

Step 2

The Interview

Interviews are typically conducted between the end of March and the end of April. Interviews for UEOs are conducted in groups of 20.

Interviews for HDRs and TEs are determined by the total number of applicants.

Step 3

Pre-Apprentice Hands-on Training

Pre-apprentice hands-on training is typically held during the month of June.

Once all three steps are successfully completed, the applicant is placed on the Eligible for Dispatch list and waits for their first job. Once dispatched to the first employer, they become a registered apprentice.

Pre-Apprenticeship Programs

Pre-Apprenticeship Programs

Pre-apprenticeship Programs

Pre-apprenticeship programs provide a good overview of all trades. These often free programs help you find the trade that might work for you. The following are links to pre-apprenticeship programs in our area (links will open a new window):

Apprenticeship Opportunities

Apprenticeship Opportunities

A listing of the trades OETC recruits for:

  • *NEW - Machinery Mover
  • Operating Engineer
  • Heavy Duty Repairer
  • Technical Engineer / Construction Surveyor

Know What’s Expected

As an apprentice, your success depends on more than just showing up. Review the policies, procedures, and program expectations that guide your training, performance, and progression.

View Apprentice Policies