For over 35 years, Grus Construction Personnel has helped thousands of tradespeople build rewarding careers-project by project, skill by skill. As a trusted nationwide staffing company specializing in construction staffing for the skilled trades, we understand the journey from apprentice to journeyman better than most.
If you're currently working as an apprentice in the trades—whether electrical, mechanical, pipefitting, or millwright work—this guide will help you understand what it takes to move confidently toward journeyman status.
1. Keep Learning Beyond the Basics
Apprenticeship teaches you how to do the job—but becoming a journeyman means understanding why and when certain approaches, materials, and systems are used.
Pro tips:
- Learn from journeymen and foremen on your crew—ask questions and seek context.
- Track your progress and tasks in a trade journal.
- Take supplemental training courses to strengthen your knowledge base and stay competitive.
2. Get Licensed, Certified, and Job-Ready
As a journeyman, you’ll be expected to take on more responsibility—and that means meeting your state’s requirements for licensing and certifications.
Steps to take:
- Review your state’s journeyman licensing process and exam requirements.
- Get certified in safety (OSHA 10/30), confined space, first aid/CPR, or equipment operation.
- Don’t wait—start the licensing process early so you’re ready when the opportunity arises.
3. Strengthen the Soft Skills That Matter
Journeymen are leaders on the job site—not just skilled workers. That means being able to communicate clearly, work independently, and lead by example.
Focus areas:
- Effective communication with foremen, general contractors, and fellow tradespeople
- Mentoring newer apprentices
- Staying accountable for time management, safety, and productivity
- 4. See the Big Picture
Journeymen don’t just complete tasks—they understand how their work connects to the broader goals of the project. Whether you’re wiring a high-voltage panel or setting heavy equipment, you need to see the flow of construction from start to finish.
Next steps:
- Learn how to read full construction plans and blueprints
- Understand project sequencing and timelines
- Ask about opportunities to assist in layout, material takeoffs, or quality control
5. Work With a Construction Staffing Partner Who Supports Your Growth
At Grus Construction Personnel, we specialize in placing tradespeople in commercial and industrial settings across the country. We’re not just another construction staffing company—we’re a nationwide staffing company that connects hardworking individuals with the right opportunities to develop and showcase their journeyman-level skills.
Whether you’re just starting to feel confident in your craft or are ready to lead teams on large-scale projects, we place skilled trades professionals in:
- Commercial and industrial construction
- Long- and short-term assignments
- Projects where you can grow, learn, and take on more responsibility
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Trade Career?
If you’re serious about leveling up from apprentice to journeyman, it’s time to align with a staffing partner that’s just as invested in your future as you are.
👉 Visit GrusPersonnel.com now and sign up for job alerts to get connected with the best commercial and industrial skilled trades opportunities across the country.