Program Information

Pile drivers work with pile-driving rigs--those big machines that look like cranes, but shake the ground as they drive metal, concrete or wood piling into the earth during the early stages of construction. Usually, pile drivers are the first workers at the construction site. They drive metal sheet piling to hold back the dirt during excavations. They drive concrete and metal piling as part of the foundation system upon which skyscrapers are built, and they drive wood and concrete piling to hold up docks, wharfs and bridges. In some cases they work on off-shore oil rigs and as commercial divers involved in underwater construction. Pile drivers are also required to install heavy timbers and weld or cut large metal beams. If you like working outside with large equipment, heavy materials, and sometimes under extreme weather conditions, then you’ll like the hearty occupation of the pile driver! 

The Apprenticeship Training Program for Pile Drivers is a four-year program. The apprentice must furnish his/her own tools and register in and be working as an indentured apprentice. Employment within the trade depends upon available work in the industry and a willingness to work.

Apprentices are also required to attend daytime college credit related and supplemental instruction for two weeks, 40 hours per week, every six months.

Successful completion of the apprenticeship program (1) leads to journeyworker status with the State of California, (2) satisfies major requirements for an associate degree through Santiago Canyon College, and (3) satisfies requirements for a Certificate of Achievement through Santiago Canyon College.

Application Information

In order to indenture into the apprenticeship program (become an apprentice) a person must:

1. Be at least seventeen (17) years of age. There is no upper age limit.
2. Have a job offer with an approved contractor. Applicants may wish to contact a Local Union or Training Center (see list below) in advance for information regarding the availability of jobs and prospective contractors who may be in need of an apprentice.
3. Complete a written application seeking entry into the program.
4. Obtain a "Letter of Subscription" signed by an approved contractor. A "Letter of Intent" on company letterhead will also suffice in lieu of the "Letter of Subscription."
5. Return the completed "Letter of Subscription" or "Letter of Intent" to one of the above locations.
6. Upon indenture, the apprentice will be required to sign an apprenticeship agreement and will receive a copy of the rules and regulations. If the applicant is seventeen (17) years of age, he must have a parent or a guardian sign the apprenticeship agreement.
7. Register in and attend daytime training classes, in addition to on-the-job training.
8. Furnish your own hand tools and have reliable transportation to school and work.

Written applications are accepted at the following locations:

​Piledrivers Local Union 2375 728 Lagoon Ave Wilmington, CA 90744 310-830-5300

​Whittier Training Center 10015 Rose Hills Road Whittier, CA 90601-1792 562-699-0419

Contact Information

Southwest Carpenters Training Fund
Buena Park Training Center
7111 Firestone Blvd. #137
Buena Park, CA 90621
714-571-0449 FAX 714-571-0747
Email: bptc@swctf.org
Website: www.swctf.org