Roofer at Northwest Indiana Roofers JATC
at Northwest Indiana Roofers JATC in Merrillville, IN
About This Program
The Northwest Indiana Roofers JATC sponsors a union roofer apprenticeship based in Merrillville, Indiana. As a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee program, it is jointly administered by union and employer partners to ensure apprentices receive consistent, high-quality training in the roofing trade. Apprentices earn a paycheck throughout the program, with wages that increase as they gain experience and skills.
This time-based program spans 3 years and requires 4,000 hours of on-the-job training and 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside experienced journeymen installing roofing systems, applying waterproofing materials, managing roof drainage, and following safety protocols. Classroom sessions cover roofing fundamentals, material science, applicable building codes, and occupational safety.
Upon successful completion, apprentices achieve journeyman roofer status. Union membership offers access to collectively bargained wages and benefits, making this a strong foundation for a long-term career in the roofing industry across northwest Indiana.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$22
OJT Hours
4,000
RTI Hours
432
Duration
3 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
Roofer Career Outlook
National Median
$22.34/hr
~$46,467.2/yr
Apprentice Start
$14/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Roofer employment is projected to grow, driven by ongoing roof replacement needs and new construction. Severe weather events and aging building stock create consistent demand for roof repair and replacement. Commercial roofing, particularly energy-efficient and green roof systems, is a growing specialization.
What to Expect as a Roofer Apprentice
Duration
3 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~27 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (4,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
432 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 Roofer
Apprenticeship
Trade School
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