Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Sprinkler Fitting Apprenticeship
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Wisconsin / Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Sprinkler Fitting Apprenticeship
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Sprinkler Fitting Apprenticeship (Statewide, WI)
Programs Offered
- Sprinkler Fitting Apprenticeship (5-Year Program)
- Hands-on Fire Protection System Installation and Maintenance Training
- Pathway to Journeyman Sprinkler Fitter Certification
Program Overview
The Sprinkler Fitting Apprenticeship Program through the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin (ABC WI) trains individuals to design, install, repair, maintain, and inspect fire protection systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Apprentices learn to work with a variety of pipe and tubing materials, as well as electrical components and chemical compounds used in sprinkler systems. The program provides both classroom instruction and extensive on-the-job training focused on safety, accuracy, and compliance with national fire codes.
This program is ideal for those interested in protecting lives and property through the skilled trade of fire suppression and system installation.
Hands-On Training
Apprentices gain practical experience through in-house and field-based instruction, including:
- Designing and installing fire protection and sprinkler systems according to specifications.
- Cutting, threading, and fitting pipes using specialized tools and machinery.
- Inspecting, testing, and maintaining sprinkler systems for functionality and compliance.
- Reading and interpreting blueprints, layouts, and electrical schematics.
- Understanding chemical and mechanical components of fire suppression systems.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Completion qualifies apprentices to test for journeyman sprinkler fitter certification in Wisconsin.
- Training includes instruction on national fire and sprinkler codes, safety procedures, and inspection standards.
- Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in fire protection design, inspection, or project management.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Sprinkler Fitting Apprentice: Earn wages while learning the trade through classroom and field training.
- Journeyman Sprinkler Fitter: Eligible for full trade pay and increased responsibilities upon completion.
- Advanced Roles: Opportunities for foreman, inspector, or fire systems project manager positions.
Program Length
- 5-year apprenticeship program.
- Includes classroom education and paid on-the-job training through ABC WI’s in-house program.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of the online apprenticeship application.
- High school diploma, GED, or verified equivalent (transcript 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: 239, Arithmetic: 237, or
- ACT Reading: 15, Math: 15
Compensation & Benefits
Apprentices earn a percentage of the journey-level wage that increases each year—45% in the first year, 60% in the second year, 65% in the third year, 70% in the fourth year, and 75% in the fifth year. The average skilled wage rate for sprinkler fitters in Wisconsin is approximately $42.12 per hour, plus benefits such as healthcare and retirement.
Cost & Financial Support
The apprenticeship is tuition-free. Training is provided through ABC WI’s in-house program, which includes classroom and field instruction at no cost to apprentices. Participants earn wages while completing their education.
Location
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin
In-House Program (Statewide Training and Placement)
Training coordinated through ABC WI’s 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.