Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Heat & Frost Insulating Apprenticeship
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Wisconsin / Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Heat & Frost Insulating Apprenticeship
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Heat & Frost Insulating Apprenticeship (Statewide, WI)
Programs Offered
- Heat & Frost Insulating Apprenticeship (4-Year Program)
- Hands-on Insulation and Energy Systems Training
- Pathway to Journeyman Heat & Frost Insulator Certification
Program Overview
The Heat & Frost Insulating Apprenticeship Program through the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin (ABC WI) trains individuals to install, maintain, and repair insulation systems that control temperature and energy efficiency in buildings, piping, and mechanical systems. Apprentices learn to work with a variety of insulating materials and techniques that reduce energy loss, protect equipment, and improve environmental performance.
This program is ideal for those who enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and contributing to the growing field of energy-efficient construction and mechanical systems.
Hands-On Training
Apprentices gain practical experience both in the classroom and on job sites, including:
- Installing and repairing insulation on pipes, ducts, and mechanical equipment.
- Applying weatherproofing, vapor barriers, and fire-stopping materials.
- Reading and interpreting blueprints and mechanical drawings.
- Working safely with tools and materials used in industrial and commercial insulation projects.
- Measuring, cutting, and fitting insulation to precise specifications.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Completion qualifies apprentices for journeyman insulator certification in Wisconsin.
- Program includes classroom study in materials science, energy systems, and safety standards.
- Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in thermal system installation and project supervision.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Apprentice Heat & Frost Insulator: Earn wages while completing on-the-job and classroom training.
- Journeyman Insulator: Eligible for full trade pay and expanded work opportunities upon program completion.
- Advanced Roles: Potential career growth into estimator, foreman, or energy-efficiency specialist positions.
Program Length
- 4-year apprenticeship program.
- Includes classroom instruction and field experience through ABC WI’s in-house training program.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of the online apprenticeship application.
- High school diploma, GED, or verified equivalent (transcripts or documentation required).
- Copy of driver’s license or reliable transportation plan to attend training and job sites.
- Minimum test scores required:
- Next Generation Accuplacer Reading: 209, Arithmetic: 237, or
- ACT Reading: 12, Math: 15
Compensation & Benefits
Apprentices earn a percentage of the journey-level wage that increases annually as they progress through training. The average skilled wage rate for heat and frost insulators in Wisconsin is approximately $31.01 per hour, plus benefits such as healthcare and retirement contributions.
Cost & Financial Support
The apprenticeship is tuition-free. Classroom and on-the-job training are provided through the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin’s in-house program. Apprentices earn wages and benefits while completing their training.
Location
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin
In-House Program (Statewide Training and Placement)
Training conducted through ABC WI’s dedicated apprenticeship network.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
This is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you will earn while you learn.
- Paid on-the-job training with increasing wages
- Classroom or technical instruction provided by the program
- No tuition costs — apprentices are paid during training
- Nationally recognized credential upon completion
Because apprenticeships are managed through the U.S. Department of Labor, College Scorecard data for tuition and earnings does not apply. Apprenticeships provide real-world experience and a direct path to journeyman-level wages without student debt.