Plumber, Pipefitter, HVAC/R Program
U.P. Plumbers, Pipefitters & HVACR Technicians – Local 111
APPLICATION STATUS:
PLUMBER & PIPEFITTER APPRENTICESHIP-Applications Are Not Currently Being Accepted
Application dates and availability are announced periodically. Contact Michigan Works! for information about upcoming application opportunities.
HVAC/R SERVICE APPRENTICESHIP – Applications Currently Being Accepted
The HVAC/R Service Apprenticeship Program is currently accepting applications.
Applicants must have a two-year associate degree or equivalent experience to qualify.
If you meet these requirements and are interested in applying, please contact:
John Antoncew, Training Coordinator
Work: (906) 789-9784 Ext. 3
Cell: (906) 235-5190
Email: jantoncew@ua111.com
Questions About the Apprenticeship?
For questions about the Local 111 Apprenticeship Program, please contact:
John Antoncew
Training Coordinator
Work: (906) 789-9784 Ext. 3
Cell: (906) 235-5190
Email: jantoncew@ua111.com
About the Trade
Plumbers and Pipefitters & HVAC/R Techs work in a variety of settings, including commercial buildings, homes, factories, paper mills, mines, power plants, and refineries. The trade includes plumbing, heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, and industrial piping.
The work can involve traveling, working in different environments, and adapting to changing job schedules. It offers the opportunity to develop valuable skills while building a rewarding career.
About Local Union 111
Local Union 111 represents Plumbers and Pipefitters throughout Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Niagara, Wisconsin. Our members work in a variety of industries, including residential, commercial, and industrial construction.
Members may work on plumbing and heating systems, air conditioning and refrigeration, boilers, industrial piping, and pipe welding. Depending on the work available, members may also have opportunities to travel throughout the United States and Canada.
Apprenticeship Program
Our Plumber/Pipefitter Apprenticeship is a five-year program that combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices gain hands-on experience while learning the skills needed to become qualified journeymen.
Apprentices attend 216 hours of classroom training each year and receive wage increases every six months as they progress through the program.
Apprentices also have access to valuable benefits, including healthcare coverage, a medical reimbursement account, pension, and annuity benefits.
What We’re Looking For
Successful apprentices are dependable, motivated, willing to learn, and prepared for the demands of the trade.
- Willingness to travel and work away from home for extended periods.
- Ability to attend 216 hours of required classroom training each year.
- Flexibility to work different shifts and in changing weather conditions.
- Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and holidays when needed.
- Ability to perform physically demanding work.
- Basic math, reading, and communication skills.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 17 years old to apply.
- Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent to enter the program.
- Must pass a background check.
- Must pass a drug and alcohol screening.
- HVAC/R Service Apprenticeship applicants must have a two-year associate degree or equivalent
Application Process
When applications reopen, interested individuals will need to apply through any designated Michigan Works! Service Center. Applicants will be required to complete the application process and meet the testing requirements outlined below.
Interested in applying in the future? Scan the QR code to visit Michigan Works! for Local 111 apprenticeship application information and updates.

Required Testing
Applicants must complete the ACT WorkKeys assessments in the following areas:
- Graphic Literacy
- Workplace Documents
- Applied Mathematics
Applicants must achieve a combined average score of Level 5.33 and an average of 80% correct across all three exams to qualify for an interview. The testing fee is $24. Applicants who need to retake a test are responsible for the cost of each additional test.
Required Documents
- Birth certificate or other proof of age.
- High school diploma and official transcript, OR GED certificate and official GED test results.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Social Security card.
- DD-214 (if applicable). Veterans may submit this to receive consideration for applicable military training and experience.
Please note: Applications must be completed in full, including all required information, documents, and signatures. Incomplete applications may result in denial or disqualification.
Where to Apply
When applications reopen, applications will be handled through the following designated Michigan Works! Service Centers:
- Local County Offices
- Alger County
- Baraga County
- Chippewa/Mackinac County
- Delta County
- Dickinson County
- Gogebic County
- Houghton/Keweenaw County
- Iron County
- Luce County
- Marquette County
- Ontonagon County
- Schoolcraft County
- Menominee County
- Please call your U.P. Michigan Works! office before visiting to confirm that they are open and available to assist you.
For more information about Local 111 apprenticeship applications, visit:
Equal Opportunity
Upper Peninsula Plumbers and Pipefitters will not discriminate against apprenticeship applicants or apprentices based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), genetic information, or because they are an individual with a disability or a person 40 years or older.