Education · 1 of 5
The path
An apprenticeship, not a degree. Mostly on the job, with classroom nights or blocks.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
Shop, math and physical education all help. A diploma or equivalent is the usual minimum, and some programs take people without one.
- 2
Find a sponsor
Weeks to months
A union local or a glass contractor that will take you on. This is the hard step. Applications open on a schedule, so ask early and keep asking.
- 3
Register the apprenticeship
Days
Registered programs are approved by the United States Department of Labor or a state apprenticeship agency, which is what makes the credential portable.
- 4
Work and study
About 4 years
Roughly four years of paid work on site plus classroom hours each year, covering cutting, setting, sealants, framing systems and safety.
- 5
Journey-level glazier
After your hours
You come out with a nationally recognized completion certificate and the full rate of pay.