In modern vocational training systems, "journeyman" is primarily a distinction in certain skilled building trades which requires the completion of a
supervised apprenticeship under a master of that craft or trade. After fulfilling additional requirements (which vary widely), a journeyman may go on to become a
master of their craft.
United States In the
United States, apprenticeship programs and occupational certifications are regulated at the state and local (city or county) level. Hence the requirements for certification as a journeyman vary greatly depending on the trade and jurisdiction. In general, the term applies to one who has completed an apprenticeship program and earned the requisite certification, which may require the completion of a certain number of supervised field hours under a
master of the trade and a certification exam. Journeymen
steel workers,
electrical workers,
pipefitters, and
iron workers, (to name a few) are represented by trade-specific
labor unions.
Australia In
Australia, a journeyman registration permits the holder to work under the general direction of an advanced
tradesman. A journeyman may oversee the work of apprentices and trades assistants but may not contract for work using that particular registration. A journeyman-level qualification is obtained by completing a formal
apprenticeship. An apprenticeship entails learning a skilled trade under the supervision of an advanced tradesperson. An apprentice is a trainee who is being formally trained and qualified in a particular trade. The duration of an apprenticeship is usually three to four years, depending on the trade. On completion of the training, the apprentice will receive a nationally recognised qualification, a trade certificate. Practical on-the-job learning makes up the majority of an apprenticeship, but it also incorporates some classroom learning. As of 2016, apprenticeships offered real-life experience in the workplace, a regular income and new skills. Examples of licensed trades are plumbers and
gasfitters,
electricians, air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics, and carpenters and joiners.
New Zealand In
New Zealand, the journeyman class recognizes that a person has had formal training in a trade, and allows them to register and be licensed as a journeyman in that trade. While they are considered fully trained, their level of skill is considered intermediate. A journeyman is required to work under the supervision of a fully qualified tradesman. An apprentice is eligible for journeyman registration after they have completed the New Zealand National Certificate (Level 4) in Plumbing, Gasfitting or Drainlaying but haven’t yet passed the relevant theory examination. A candidate must apply formally to the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board. A journeyman cannot be a business owner or manage employees, but is expected to do service calls in coordination with and at the behest of the master tradesman. They may also work independently when their skill level permits.
Canada In
Canada, in addition to completion of
apprenticeship in a skilled trade, the worker may also choose to write an exam to be recognized throughout the country under the Interprovincial Standards
Red Seal Program. ==See also==