Bates Technical College and Sumner High School signed a new articulation agreement yesterday that will allow qualified students direct entry into the South Puget Sound Carpenters Apprenticeship program straight out of high school.

“This value-added training is an outstanding opportunity for high school students to make a livable wage,” says John Grant, Manager of High School Relations at Bates. Students who have completed the MAIP (Model Apprenticeship Instruction Program) curriculum with a score of 3.0 or better will be admitted directly into the apprenticeship program, avoiding the process of being placed on a long waiting list. “It gives these students a genuine headstart toward a good career,” says Grant. “And carpentry is a career – not just a job. We train professionals.”

The starting wage for a novice apprentice is currently $18 an hour with an added benefits package of $10.90/hour – not too shabby for a young adult just entering the workforce.

Robin Culpepper, Bates’ Construction Related Trades Instructor at Sumner High School, made some minimal adjustments to the Sumner curriculum to meet and exceed Washington State Standards of Apprenticeship. MAIP topics include a history of the construction industry, orientation, safety and regulations, measurement and layout skills, usage of hand, portable power and stationary power tools, reading plans and blueprints, building maintenance, and construction materials. “The program is heavy on carpentry,” says Culpepper, “but it also touches on plumbing, electrical wiring and welding. These kids gain skills and abilities to use on the job. It’s a win-win situation for the students and for the industry.”

In addition to the construction trades, faculty from Bates Technical College provides vocational training in computer technology, fire protection, diesel and automotive maintenance, and the metals and welding trades to Sumner High students. The partnership is a time and money saving venture for students and their families because students earn both college and high school credit simultaneously, referred to as dual credit. The arrangement can save a high school student more than a $1,000 in college tuition before graduation from high school.