Roofer at United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers Local 97
at United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers Local 97 in Champaign, IL
About This Program
United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers Local 97 sponsors a registered union Roofer Apprenticeship in Champaign, IL. As a JATC-affiliated program, this apprenticeship offers union wages, progressive training, and the resources of an established trade union for apprentices in East-Central Illinois.
The program runs for three years and combines 4,000 hours of on-the-job training with 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain hands-on experience in roofing and waterproofing across a variety of commercial, institutional, and residential project types. Skills developed include installing single-ply membranes, built-up roofing, modified bitumen systems, and waterproofing assemblies. Classroom training covers safety, roofing codes, and material applications.
Graduates earn journey-level union status with Local 97 upon completion, positioning them for union-scale employment with signatory contractors. Champaign's university, healthcare, and commercial sectors support a steady market for roofing and waterproofing professionals.
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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