WBFAA APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM QUESTION AND ANSWER

Who is the WBFAA?
The WBFAA is a joint effort of the CAA and CAFAA to develop an approved apprenticeship program for the fire/integrated systems industry in California.

Why is this necessary?
The passage of AB 931 mandates that all persons in the fire/integrated systems industry be certified as part of an approved apprenticeship program.

Can we fight certification and the requirement for an apprenticeship program?
While this was considered, no reasonable means of exempting the fire/integrated systems industry from these mandates was found.

Who has to be certified?
All persons holding a C-10 license and their employees involved in the fire/integrated systems industry must be certified.

When will this be required?
The target date for enforcement was July 2001, depending primarily on the development and approval of the certification exam. It appears that the development of all the elements will push that date to 2002, possible towards the end of the year.

Can I take the test only?
All persons who can show a verifiable 4000 hours of fieldwork in the industry can take the certification exam and be certified if they pass the exam.

What if I fail the test?
All persons who can't pass the certification test after showing verifiable hours will then be required to enter an approved apprenticeship program.

How long is the apprenticeship program?
The apprenticeship program is 6,000 hours (approximately three years) on the job training and approximately 500 hours of continuing education outside the required fieldwork hours.

How will this affect wages and benefits?
Any person working in the field covered by the apprenticeship program will have their wages and benefits governed by an approved table with minimum wages and benefits. These levels will be determined through a survey of relevant compensation based on the work being done and the geographic location in the state.

Who can participate in the WBFAA Apprenticeship Program?
Members of the CAA and CAFAA can participate. Non-members may participate, although the fees associated with the program may be higher.

How is WBFAA being funded?
Both CAA and CAFAA have contributed $5,000 to pay initial costs, and are seeking financial support from companies and associations who are affected by this program and will benefit from its development. The WBFAA has a budget of approximately $40,000 for the first six months to develop the program and establish the organization.

What is the benefit of an apprenticeship program?
A formal apprenticeship program sponsored by our industry will provide an opportunity to develop recruitment and training programs by offering competitive wages and benefits along a standardized formula in conjunction with entry level and continuing education. This will enable the industry to build a well-trained labor pool of qualified workers.

What is the benefit of a WBFAA Apprenticeship Program?
The WBFAA program is being developed to meet the strict criteria of the DAS with training, education, certification and compensation that is relevant to the fire/integrated systems industry. This program will be developed by our industry and not by some other entities.