KAUKAUNA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A group of young adults who chose not to go to college are getting started on their careers.
Eighty-eight new apprentices, up from 51 last year, took part in a ceremony in Kaukauna on Thursday.
Isabella Campbell says before she graduated from high school last year, she possibly wanted to go into the military or law enforcement. But she thanks her welding class for making up her mind.
“My welding teacher asked me if I ever thought of the trades, and he got me in touch with (the UA Local 400 union), and here I am,” said Campell.
On Thursday, she began her journey of being a first-year fabricator apprentice at Bassett Mechanical.
“And I absolutely love it,” said Campbell.
Forbes data suggests the average salary of a person who has a bachelor’s degree is $59,600. The average for someone with an associate’s degree is $44,100.
According to data from the U.S. government, 93% of apprentices who complete an apprenticeship retain employment, with an average salary of $77,000.
Trevor Martin of UA 400, a union based in Kaukauna, tells FOX 11 some working in the trades can earn more than that.
“Some people working overtime or working in different shifts or different parts of the industry, they’re making well over six-figures right now.”
And that’s without student debt, which Forbes pegs at $28,950 per borrower.
“They get paid to come here to go to class and then after five years, they’re making an industry-recognized wage and benefit package,” said Martin.
The current package is worth about $67 an hour. Martin says it could be more in the future.
“They’re able to get that paycheck, put it in the bank and be able to support their family.”
For Campell, she says she’s excited for her career path and hopes others will look into the opportunities trade work has to offer.
“Do what you love. If you can take care of yourself and have fun, you’ll do great.”
If you or your child is interested in learning more about trade work or apprenticeships in Northeast Wisconsin, click here.
