APPLICATION PILOT · SECURE ACCOUNTS & SAVED PROGRESSOpen staff workspace
18LOCAL 18PLASTERERS & CEMENT MASONSApply now
OPCMIA LOCAL 18 · APPRENTICESHIP

Build a skill.
Build your future.

A career you can put your hands on.
Explore cement masonry and plastering, then take your next step with Local 18.

Apply now Find your trade
Create an account, save your progress and return when you are ready.
CRAFT. CONFIDENCE. A PATH FORWARD.Scroll to explore ↓
Learn on the jobPaid work and practical experience
144 hoursClassroom instruction each year
2 skilled tradesChoose the work that fits you
01 / FIND YOUR CRAFT

Two trades.
A future built by you.

Look closely at the work. Picture the skills you want to develop. Your application begins with choosing a trade.

Concrete cutting and finishing workCEMENT MASON
FOUNDATIONS THAT LAST3-year program

Shape the places
people depend on.

Build and finish concrete surfaces, from roads and buildings to decorative textures and polished finishes.

Explore cement masonry
A tradesperson preparing material for interior finishingPLASTERER
SKILL IN EVERY SURFACE4-year program

Turn a surface
into a finished space.

Learn to apply plaster by hand to interior and exterior walls and ceilings, developing control and craftsmanship.

Explore plastering
02 / UNDERSTAND THE JOURNEY

A clear next step.
At every stage.

The website describes an intent-to-hire process, with no entrance test or ranking. Eligibility comes first; a contractor commitment comes next.

See the application
Your account keeps your application, documents and next steps together.
  1. 01

    Apply & share your documents

    Tell the office about yourself and prepare the evidence needed for review.

  2. 02

    Confirm your eligibility

    Staff review the application, resolve missing items and confirm the appropriate home area.

  3. 03

    Find a sponsoring contractor

    Use the contractor list and introduction letter. A contractor provides a written commitment to hire.

  4. 04

    Complete your onboarding

    Follow the office’s screening instructions and agreement requirements. Admission and work clearance are separate checkpoints.

03 / ARRIVE PREPARED

Your next chapter
starts with the basics.

Take a moment to gather your information. The online application guides you through each section of the original paperwork.

  • 01
    Birth certificateApplicants must be at least 18.
  • 02
    High school diploma or GEDPrepare your education documentation.
  • 03
    Photo identificationHave a clear, readable copy ready.
  • 04
    Social Security cardRequired on the supplied office checklist.
  • 05
    DD214, if applicableFor proof of military service.
A FEW THINGS TO KNOW

Questions before
your first step?

Start here. For current wages, office requirements and class dates, speak with Local 18.

Can I explore before starting an application?

Yes. Explore both trades and the steps on this page. A draft is created after you sign in, choose a trade and select Start application.

Is this the official application?

This is an online pilot built from Local 18’s supplied forms. It saves account and application records. Confirm with Local 18 before relying on this pilot for an official application; current office instructions still apply.

What happens after I submit?

Patrick’s workspace receives your application and documents. Once staff approves your eligibility, your account receives a solicitation package. You can then upload a contractor’s letter of intent for the screening and agreement steps.

Where can I find classes and current pay information?

Visit Local 18’s apprenticeship page for class information and contact the office for current pay details.

A REAL CONVERSATION HELPS

Connect with Local 18.

Office addresses & details ↗
PEORIA309-497-2870Call the office ↗SPRINGFIELD217-585-4221Call the office ↗BLOOMINGTON309-828-3279Call the office ↗ROCK ISLAND309-786-2527Call the office ↗
YOUR NEXT STEP STARTS HERE

Put your future
in your hands.

Apply now Secure account · Saved progress · Clear next steps