Elevator Constructor at International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 131 JAC
at International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 131 JAC in Albuquerque, NM
About This Program
The International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 131 JAC in Albuquerque, NM offers a union-affiliated (JATC) registered apprenticeship program in elevator construction. Serving New Mexico's largest metro area, this paid program gives apprentices the field experience and classroom knowledge needed to become fully qualified journeyman elevator constructors.
The program runs for four years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training paired with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work under experienced journeymen to install, maintain, and modernize elevators, escalators, and related systems. Coursework covers electrical theory, mechanical principles, hydraulic systems, safety codes, and blueprint reading, building a comprehensive technical foundation.
Graduates earn journeyman elevator constructor status and IUEC Local 131 union membership, which includes access to negotiated wages, benefits, and long-term career support. Elevator constructors are consistently needed across New Mexico's commercial, healthcare, and government construction sectors, making this a reliable and rewarding trade career path.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$47
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
4 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
Elevator Constructor Career Outlook
National Median
$46.56/hr
~$96,844.8/yr
Apprentice Start
$25/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Elevator constructor employment is projected to grow faster than average, driven by new high-rise construction, elevator modernization requirements, and building code changes mandating accessibility upgrades. The small size of the workforce relative to the installed base of equipment means strong job security. Aging elevator systems in major cities require ongoing modernization, creating sustained demand.
What to Expect as an Elevator Constructor Apprentice
Duration
4 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~40 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
576 hours of related technical instruction (~144 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Elevator Constructor
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in New Mexico
Elevator Constructors in New Mexico are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, Construction Industries Division, Elevator Bureau.
View full New Mexicolicensing requirements →Reviews
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