Ja’Kalen Martin, hired in 2023 as an electrician apprentice, practices using a power tool; a skill all apprentices learn.
The Facilities Management Apprenticeship Program has opened applications to hire two plumbers. Applications will be open throughout the month of February.
This announcement comes as the department continues its work to address a nationwide skilled trades shortage.
“Our decision to hire plumber apprentices is based on the critical needs for plumbing skills in Facilities Management,” said Hayley White, Human Resources training manager for Facilities Management. “As the university continues to grow and maintain its vast infrastructure, the demand for skilled plumbers has become increasingly evident.
“We make decisions to hire apprentices by forecasting needs on campus, monitoring the number of retirements and number of employees per skilled trade. As it stands, plumbers are our smallest skilled trade group, and our largest need. Apprenticeship programs are a long-term solution to workforce needs, as well as an investment in the workforce.”
The program, which began in 2023, includes six apprentices – two plumbers, two electricians and two HVAC technicians, with plans to continue its growth in the coming years.
“We are committed to investing in the future workforce and providing opportunities for individuals to develop their skills and advance their careers,” White said. “Our current plan is to hire apprentices annually. Since we will be hiring plumbers this year, we may hire HVAC or electrical apprentices in 2026.”
Candidates can submit applications by visiting the Auburn University Employment website.
Each apprentice will receive a combination of 6,000 hours of on-the-job instruction and formal classroom instruction through the three-year program which will include assessments and on-the-job evaluation to move to the next level. They will also be considered full-time Auburn University employees and will receive university benefits such as health insurance, and holiday, annual and sick leave.
“Apprentices will receive pay increases as their skills and knowledge increase,” said Loren Winn, director of Facilities Management Human Resources. “These progressive wage increases help reward and motivate apprentices as they advance through their training.
Every graduate of the program will receive a nationally recognized credential and will be eligible to sit for the journeyman license in their respective field.”
Visit the Facilities Management Workforce Development page to learn more about how the department is working to bridge the skills gap by creating a sustainable pipeline of work-ready employees to support Auburn University.
