Generally trade schools offer a 2 year program in which you take classes and work as an an understudy for alternating periods. e.g. 6 weeks classes, 6 weeks of

Generally trade schools offer a 2 year program in which you take classes and work as an an understudy for alternating periods. e.g. 6 weeks classes, 6 weeks of work. In my state, starting hourly is around $18-20 with increases until you 'graduate' then you work as an apprentice and move up the ranks. The wages both in school and after are contingent on the trade and state. 2 years is pretty standard, but you get paid while you learn instead of paying for education.