Operating Engineers 324 Stationary Engineer/HVAC Technician Apprenticeship

Funder: International Union of Operating Engineers Local 324 (Michigan)

Program Status: Active - Ongoing applications with periodic intake periods

Geographic Scope: Michigan

Focus Areas:

• Stationary Engineer apprenticeship (3-4 years)
• HVAC Technician apprenticeship (4 years)

Program Description

A registered apprenticeship program combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction for individuals seeking careers in heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) and stationary engineering. Apprentices earn while they learn and receive good wages plus benefits.

Stationary Engineers

• Responsible for operation, maintenance, renovation, and repair of boiler systems and mechanical systems in facilities
• Apprenticeship duration: Minimum 3-4 years with 6,000-8,000 hours
• Work locations: Schools, hospitals, hotels, apartment buildings, shopping malls, airports, power plants, industrial/manufacturing plants, breweries, co-generation plants, petro-chemical plants, office buildings, government facilities
• Example employers: Guardian Plumbing and Heating

HVAC Technicians

• Responsible for operating and maintaining heating and cooling systems in large buildings
• Apprenticeship duration: 4 years with 8,000 hours
• Work locations: Ford Field, hospitals, schools, Little Caesars Arena, Detroit Public Schools, university buildings, Detroit Metro Airport, Detroit Zoo
• High-demand field with hundreds of unfilled positions in Michigan
• Experienced HVAC operators can earn six figures

Eligibility Requirements

• Age: 18 years or older
• Education: High school graduate or GED holder
• Citizenship: U.S. citizen or legally authorized to work in the United States
• Physical Ability: Must be physically able to perform the work of the trade
• Drug Testing: Must pass a drug test if accepted for training
• Transportation: Must have a reliable vehicle and be willing to travel to job assignments throughout Michigan
• Application Method: Must apply in person and present valid Michigan driver's license

Benefits

Apprentices receive:

• Good wages that increase annually
• Health insurance
• Pension benefits
• Access to union training programs
• Job placement assistance after graduation
• Debt-free education model (earn while you learn)

Program Structure

• Training programs typically lasting multiple terms
• Stationary Engineer programs: 3-4 terms (approximately 8 months to 1 year per term)
• Basic refrigeration: 3 terms
• Steam boiler: 4 terms
• Programs include supervised work experience and related school instruction
• About 300 people participate in OE324 programs annually

Training Facilities

• Stationary Career Center: 1550 Howard Street, Detroit, MI
• Construction Career Center: 555-acre campus in Howell, Michigan

Contact

Training Director: Jim Arini

Application Process

Application Method: In-person application pickup and submission

Recent Application Period Example: February 15, 2019 (Applications typically available on designated dates)

Required Materials

1. Valid Michigan Driver's License (must present in person)
2. Education Documentation:
   • High school diploma or GED certificate
3. Citizenship/Work Authorization Documentation

Eligibility Checklist

Applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:

• [ ] 18 years or older
• [ ] High school graduate or GED holder
• [ ] U.S. citizen or legally authorized to work in the United States
• [ ] Physically able to perform the work of the trade
• [ ] Willing to undergo physical examination
• [ ] Willing to pass a drug test
• [ ] Have reliable vehicle
• [ ] Willing to travel to job assignments throughout Michigan

Step-by-Step Application

1. Visit the Stationary Education Center at 1550 Howard, Detroit, MI
2. Bring valid Michigan driver's license
3. Pick up job training application form
4. Complete application form with all required information
5. Gather and attach required supporting documents
6. Return completed application and all supporting documents
7. Receive written aptitude test appointment if application is complete
8. Take written aptitude test
9. Await notification of acceptance

Application Availability

• Applications given out on a first-come, first-served basis
• Limited number available during application periods
• Typical availability hours: 9 AM - 1 PM and 3 PM - 7 PM (may vary)
• Check oe324.org or contact for current application periods

Post-Application Process

• Applicants who return completed applications and required documents will be scheduled for a written aptitude test
• Successful applicants will be contacted regarding training start date
• Job placement assistance provided upon graduation

Contact for Application Dates

Jim Arini - Stationary Training Director
Stationary Career Center: 1550 Howard Street, Detroit, MI
Website: oe324.org