ACCESSING UNION
APPRENTICESHIPS
Connecting Oregon and Washington union building trades with K-12 and post-secondary education, CTE and STEM programs, and workforce development investments.
The Need for Apprenticeships
The demand for skilled tradespeople is rising as construction needs grow across both public and private sectors.
Union apprenticeship programs in the Pacific Northwest are tackling the labor shortage by blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, allowing apprentices to earn while they learn in cutting-edge training facilities.
The construction workforce in the region is slightly younger than the overall workforce. However, nearly one-fifth of construction workers are at or approaching retirement age (55 or older). To sustain the industry, more young workers will be needed—not only to replace those retiring but also to support the region’s ongoing growth.
2022 Columbia-Willamette Workforce Collaborative: Construction Labor Market Report
The average hourly wage for a union construction worker is $44.99. In addition to wages, employers contribute an average of $23.63 per hour in benefits on behalf of their employees, which amounts to approximately $49,000 per year in additional compensation.
Union Coordinator’s Group. (2025 Wages) Union Apprenticeships At-a-Glance, http://www.accessingunionapprenticeships.org
IN THE US:
400,000 Apprenticeships
150,000 Employers
1,000 Occupations
The average amount a class of 2023 graduate has in college student loan debt.
World Economic Forum
In contrast, most union apprenticeship programs in Oregon and Southwest Washington offer full scholarships or have minimal tuition costs, making them a more affordable pathway to a skilled career.
