Painter

Finishing Every Surface Right

Painters prepare, protect, and finish surfaces across residential, commercial, and public construction projects. This trade requires precision, attention to detail, and knowledge of materials to ensure structures are properly coated, protected, and visually complete.

Hands-On Work

Build real structures using tools and materials every day.

Earn While You Learn

Get paid while completing classroom and jobsite training.

Career Growth

Progress from apprentice to journeyworker through structured advancement

What Painters Do

Painters are responsible for preparing and finishing surfaces to protect structures and enhance their appearance. Their work requires careful preparation, proper material handling, and attention to safety and detail.

Painters commonly perform work such as:

  • Preparing surfaces by sanding, patching, and priming

  • Applying paint, coatings, and protective finishes

  • Working with brushes, rollers, and spray equipment

  • Sealing and waterproofing surfaces

  • Following safety standards for materials and equipment

ECWA

Our Tailored Training Path

Core Curriculum

80 hours minimum of foundational instruction covering basic construction, communication, and employability skills

CET Introduction

Construction Expedited Technology (CET) provides 8–12 weeks of hands-on exposure across a minimum of five construction trades.

On-the-Job Training

Work alongside experienced professionals while applying classroom knowledge on real job sites.

Wage Progression

Painter apprentices earn progressive wages as training milestones and jobsite hours are completed. On public works projects in Cook County, wages follow the Illinois Department of Labor prevailing wage schedule.

View Prevailing Wages
Level Typical Wage Progression
Year 1 Apprentice 40–50% of prevailing wage rate
Year 2 Apprentice 50–60% of prevailing wage rate
Year 3 Apprentice 60–70% of prevailing wage rate
Year 4 Apprentice 70–80% of prevailing wage rate
Journeyworker Painter 100% of prevailing wage rate

Build Your Future With Us

Turn ambition into skill through apprenticeship opportunities designed to support growth, confidence, and lasting success.

VIEW TRADES
CONTACT US