The program is comprised of eight periods. Each period consists of a minimum of 910 hours of instruction and OJT. The OJT is obtained directly in the field with a journey-level worker.
Each period (910 straight-time hours) lasts approximately six-months. An apprentice is eligible for advancement (pay increase) at the end of each period providing he or she maintains a passing grade of 70% or better on their exams and a "meets standards" performance rating on their OJT.
There are approximately 2-hours of home study for each hour of classroom time that will occur on the apprentice's own time outside of working hours.
OJT will occur at various locations throughout Metropolitan's service area. Classroom training is held at the Apprenticeship Training Center at Diamond Valley Lake near Hemet, CA.
What apprentice mechanics do: install, maintain and repair mechanical equipment and piping systems related to water treatment plants, pumping plants and distribution systems. This equipment includes pumps, valves, mechanical drives, water filtration systems and chemical feed systems.
What apprentice electricians do: install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair industrial electrical equipment and systems. This equipment includes pumps, motors, motor controls, transformers, circuit breakers, electrically operated valves, switchgear, variable and constant speed drives; programmable logic controllers, emergency generator systems, power systems and lighting systems.
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