Roofers Local 143 Apprenticeship – Oklahoma City
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Oklahoma / Roofers Local 143 Apprenticeship – Oklahoma City
Roofers Local 143 Apprenticeship – Oklahoma City, OK
Program Information
Roofers Local 143 offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program that trains individuals to become skilled union roofers prepared to work on large-scale commercial, industrial, and government projects. Apprentices are taught to work with a wide range of roofing materials and techniques including single-ply membranes (EPDM, TPO, PVC), built-up roofs, modified bitumen systems, and green roofing installations. They also gain experience with sheet metal flashing, vapor barriers, insulation systems, and solar-integrated roofs.
The apprenticeship emphasizes safety and professionalism, with early instruction in OSHA regulations, fall protection, harness use, scaffold setup, and rooftop hazard mitigation. In the classroom, apprentices learn how to interpret construction blueprints, follow specifications, and communicate effectively on union job sites. In the field, they work under the supervision of experienced journeymen on real construction projects—ranging from schools and hospitals to federal buildings and arenas.
With the roofing trade evolving toward sustainable and energy-efficient solutions, Roofers Local 143 ensures apprentices are also exposed to modern roofing innovations, including cool roof coatings, vegetative roofing systems, and photovoltaic panel integration. This positions graduates for long-term employability in green construction sectors.
Program Length
The apprenticeship is a 3-year program consisting of at least 4,000 hours of paid on-the-job training paired with structured classroom instruction held throughout the year at union training centers.
Programs Offered
- Commercial Roofing Systems
- Low-Slope & Flat Roofing Techniques
- Leak Detection and Roof Repair
- Waterproofing and Vapor Barrier Installation
Certifications & Career Opportunities
Graduates earn valuable industry credentials including:
- OSHA 10 or 30 Construction Safety Certification
- First Aid & CPR Certification
- Manufacturer-specific installation certifications (EPDM, TPO, etc.)
Career paths include journeyman roofer, crew leader, foreman, estimator, roofing project supervisor, or even a union training instructor. Many apprentices go on to start their own roofing businesses or advance into union leadership roles.
Program Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Physically capable of lifting materials and working at heights in all weather
- High School Diploma or GED preferred
- Reliable daily transportation to job sites
Compensation & Benefits
Apprentices start at 60% of a journeyman’s wage and receive regular raises as they progress. Benefits include:
- Union-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance
- Pension and retirement contributions
- Free classroom training and safety certifications
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.