Apprentice wages are based on what the Journeymen are making. 1st Year Apprentices start out at 50% of the Journeyman hourly wage and go to different percentages each year of the Apprenticeship. 2nd year 55%, 3rd year 60%, 4th year 70% and 5th year 75%.  A first year Apprentice is on probation for 1 year, upon completing that year the contractor then begins paying into their pension plan. Health care is provided after each member has completed a qualifying period and is part of the benefits package.