Apprentice Program

Our Tim Barton Center for Craft Excellence offers lifelong learning opportunities for individuals pursuing careers in construction. DECCO’s federally registered apprentice program for pipefitting was created to support the development of local talent and build interest in careers within the construction trades.

All pipefitter apprentices complete over 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 450 hours of related training throughout the program while earning an income. Established in 1996, DECCO’s apprentice program has grown to include more than 228 registered participants in our pipefitting program, reflecting its continued success and long-standing commitment to workforce development.

After approximately three years in the program, apprentices are prepared to test for and obtain their pipefitter license in the state of Massachusetts, with DECCO covering the cost of the licensing exam. While New Hampshire does not require a statewide pipefitting license, DECCO’s program prepares apprentices to meet the more rigorous licensing standards in Massachusetts.

DECCO’s apprentice program is recognized as one of the most awarded programs in the United States, with many participants earning national recognition at the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) National Craft Championships.

How to Join the Apprentice Program

Individuals interested in DECCO’s Apprentice Program must first submit an online application. Qualified applicants will then be invited to attend our Career Day, where they can learn more about the program, explore career opportunities in the construction trades, and gain a better understanding of the apprenticeship pathway.

Following Career Day, selected candidates will be notified of their acceptance into DECCO’s Apprentice Program and invited to begin their apprenticeship experience by participating in DECCO’s annual Boot Camp. Held each summer, Boot Camp is a paid, intensive three-week training program that serves as the first phase of the Apprenticeship Program.

Upon successful completion of Boot Camp, apprentices transition into on-the-job training in the field while also attending related technical instruction (RTI) classes. This combination of hands-on work experience and classroom education provides the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the construction trades.

Boot Camp

Our investment in employee-partners begins on day one! Apprentices start their journey with a comprehensive three-week training program that provides the foundational skills, knowledge, and confidence to prepare them for long-term success in the field.

Boot Camp includes 120 hours of hands-on training at the Tim Barton Center for Craft Excellence, equipping participants with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to get started in the field. Covered topics include:

• Safety Protocols
• Introduction to Drawings
• Construction Math
• Introduction to Piping Systems
• Introduction to Power Tools
• Orbital Welding
• Working with PVC and Copper
• Construction applications including pressure testing, hangers, cutting and grinding, and basic rigging

About the Tim Barton Center for Craft Excellence

The DECCO Apprentice Program is based at the Tim Barton Center for Craft Excellence, our dedicated training facility in Brookline, New Hampshire. The Center supports the advancement of the skilled trades through hands-on training, classroom instruction, and experiential learning opportunities.

It provides a comprehensive environment where apprentices and craft professionals develop the technical skills, safety knowledge, and problem-solving abilities needed to succeed in the field. From our federally registered apprentice program to Boot Camp and weld training, the Center serves as the foundation for lifelong learning at DECCO.

Why It’s Named After Tim Barton

The Center is named in honor of Tim Barton, a member of DECCO’s Board of Directors and Executive Vice President who led the company’s recruiting, retention, and workforce training efforts.

Tim was a passionate advocate for developing the next generation of tradespeople and a strong supporter of training and mentorship throughout New England. He played a key role in building DECCO’s nationally recognized apprenticeship program and mentored countless individuals in the industry.

Under his leadership, the program achieved national recognition and produced award-winning craft professionals, helping position DECCO as a leader in workforce development.

Naming the Center in his honor reflects his lasting impact and DECCO’s ongoing commitment to educating, mentoring, and empowering the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

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DECCO will not discriminate against apprenticeship applicants or apprentices based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, genetic information, or because they are an individual with a disability or a person 40 years old or older. DECCO will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship and will operate the apprenticeship program as required under Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 30.