06/02/2026
HVAC APPRENTICESHIP
All applications being accepted at this time are for consideration for classes starting September 2027. You will need to have your application placed by May 7th, 2027, to be considered for September 2027.
Application process: To apply you must reside within the Local 99 jurisdiction. Bring required documents on the attached list of required documents to 406 S. Eldorado Rd. Bloomington, IL Wednesdays from 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM. Once your application is complete you will take an aptitude test in our computer lab. Please allow 2 to 2 ½ hours to complete your application and aptitude test. Your application is good for 2 years from the date it is placed. Make sure you update any contact information on your application if it changes by contacting our office at 309-663-2337. This is our only means of contacting you. Once you have tested, if you place in the top 60% of all applicants that have tested, you will be asked back via a letter in the mail for the interview process. Interviews will take place in June or July. Your score from your aptitude test and your interview will be combined. This total will determine your place on our ranking list. If your ranking falls within the number of apprentices, we are taking that year you will receive notification via mail that you are being offered an apprenticeship with Local 99.
Apprenticeship: The apprenticeship program is 5 years. You will attend classes 2 nights a week for 3.5 hours a night. The school year runs from September to May. You are also required to attend at least 6 of our 12 monthly union meetings per year. You are only allowed three missed classes per year. All missed classes must be made up. There will be many opportunities for making these classes up throughout the year. There is no tuition for the apprenticeship program. You will be required to purchase books ($200-$500 yearly) and an Illinois apprentice plumbing license ($100 yearly). There is a $100 initiation fee and 1 month’s dues ($31.00) at the start of your apprenticeship and $100 final initiation fee when you graduate. You will be working during your apprenticeship.
There are many benefits you will receive on top of your working wage. Medical insurance, short term disability, pension, death benefit ($12,500), and 401K.
Mechanical Equipment Service Apprentice scale:
1st 6 months 50% Journeyman scale $20.94
2nd 6 months 55% Journeyman scale $23.03
3rd 6 months 60% Journeyman scale $25.13
4th 6 months 65% Journeyman scale $27.22
5th 6 months 70% Journeyman scale $29.32
6th 6 months 75% Journeyman scale $31.41
7th 7 months 80% Journeyman scale $33.50
8th 6 months 85% Journeyman scale $35.60
You will have to meet graduation requirements to graduate from the apprenticeship. To graduate you will have to fulfill all classroom hours and attain the required certifications. During your apprenticeship you will be taught by qualified instructors.
