Facilities & Services (F&S) and UA Local 149 Plumbers and Pipefitters signed a memorandum of understanding to bring apprentices back to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign after a 12-year absence. The new agreement reestablishes a partnership between F&S and Local 149 that places apprentices on campus to gain valuable hands-on experience while also meeting the service work and construction needs of the university. 
Dr. Mohamed Attalla, executive director of F&S, said, “This remarkable and progressive agreement shows tremendous collaboration between the two organizations to strengthen both the local organized labor market and the university workforce.”
Approximately $9,000 per apprentice will cover the training expenses included in the program. Developing a maintainable cost structure is an essential aspect of the updated agreement.
During the initial rollout, F&S hired four apprentices to work across the organization in the Building Maintenance department, at Abbott Power Plant, and as temperature control mechanics. The apprentices started on June 24.
Apprenticeships provide an excellent opportunity for succession planning at the university in the crafts and trades. Participating craftspersons will gain skills, experience, and knowledge of campus systems. The agreement will also further F&S’ strategic goals in support of the campus-wide commitment to diversity and inclusion.