Gas Distribution Technician Youth Apprenticeship

The WPS Gas Distribution Technician Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program takes place throughout a student’s senior year of high school, consisting of classroom instruction, controlled practice activities, and structured on-the-job training. Applicants are selected for YA positions based on WPS hiring and selection criteria. The primary goal of the program is to provide a foundational knowledge of Gas Utility Mechanic field employee activities to prepare the YA for a Gas Utility Construction and Service Technical Diploma. The program ensures exposure to a range of gas service and distribution disciplines that ensures YA’s are well trained to perform these tasks safely, efficiently, competently and confidently. Safety is of paramount importance to WPS and its employees, therefore, safe work practices shall be required and emphasized throughout all aspects of the youth apprenticeship. Students must have completed their junior year of high school and be enrolled for the upcoming calendar year; enrollment can take place while on-track to complete junior year. Students must possess and maintain strong grades to enter and remain in the program. Additionally, YA’s must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license along with regular and predictable attendance. Youth Apprentices are responsible for their own progress within the program. While many resources exist to assist the YA, success or failure depends upon the Youth Apprentice’s drive and performance while working in the classroom, hands-on, and on-the-job. Youth Apprentices are expected to maintain satisfactory grade levels throughout the program, while fulfilling school/work requirements. Job Competencies: The following is a list of competencies a YA must possess upon completing their program. Youth Apprentices must demonstrate the following during work assignments and training activities: 1. Follow safety procedures 2. Prepare materials for field utilization 3. Perform gas meter inspections 4. Paint meters 5. Install meters 6. Assist to exchange a gas meter 7. Assist with gas main and service installation and maintenance (Note: for youth apprentices under the age of 18 excavation is limited to 4 feet in depth or less) 8. Use hand and power tools 9. Communicate with customers 10. Perform valve maintenance 11. Understanding of common power tools names and use 12. Basic understanding of Federal Operator Qualifications 13. General understanding of Job Codes and Accounting numbers 14. General understanding of Critical Safety Rules 15. Ability to participate in pre-job briefings Each Gas Utility Mechanic Youth Apprentice is required to complete and log a minimum of 450 hours in specified categories. Hours spent assisting with and performing work processes are recorded on the Gas Distribution Technician Apprenticeship Hours Sheet, which must be submitted monthly. Upon successful completion of the Gas Distribution Technician Youth Apprenticeship program, the Youth Apprentice will be prepared to enroll in a technical college and earn their Gas Utility Construction and Service Technical Diploma, or pursue other opportunities at WPS. If you are committed to working safely while spending the majority of your time outdoors, all year long; helping customers and accurately completing tasks that can be both physically and mentally challenging, please apply. *There is (1) Gas Utility Mechanic Youth Apprenticeship available at Wisconsin Public Service in Sheboygan, WI for the 2025-2026 school year. Email your resume to Matt at Matt.Gaboda@wisconsinpublicservice.com.