Interview and Apprenticeship Aptitude Prep

Updated September 26, 2025

Table of Contents
Disclaimer: This article is for education only, not professional advice. Always verify details with official sources. Some links, forms, or listings are sponsored or paid, which may affect their placement. We may earn from them. Read our full Disclaimer.

Apprenticeship sponsors and contractors look for safety, attitude, and baseline math/mechanical reasoning. Use this guide to prepare quickly and show you’re job‑ready.

Common Aptitude Topics

  • Arithmetic: whole numbers, fractions, decimals, ratios, percent
  • Algebra: variables, linear equations, unit conversions
  • Geometry: areas, volumes, right triangles
  • Trigonometry (electrical): sine/cosine/tangent for right triangles
  • Reading: technical passages, diagrams, instructions
  • Mechanical: basic tools, pulleys, gears, levers

10‑Hour Crash Plan (1 Week)

  • Day 1–2 (4h): Fractions/decimals/ratios → 60 practice problems
  • Day 3 (2h): Algebra and unit conversions → 40 problems
  • Day 4 (2h): Right triangles + basic trig → 30 problems
  • Day 5 (1h): Mechanical reasoning practice set
  • Day 6 (1h): Read one code/safety passage and summarize

Use your school’s practice sets or reputable test prep books. See Trade Math Study Guide.

Interview: What They’ll Ask

  • Safety: “Walk me through how you’d lock out a circuit”
  • Reliability: “Tell me about a time you solved a problem under time pressure”
  • Tools: “Which meter would you use here, and why?”
  • Teamwork: “How do you take direction from a journeyperson?”

STAR Framework (Template)

Situation: Brief context Task: What needed to be done Action: What you did (tools, steps, safety) Result: Numbers, pass rates, quality outcomes

For Union Boards (IBEW/UA/Carpenters)

  • Dress clean, bring resume and certifications
  • Be concise and respectful; avoid slang or filler words
  • Highlight safety cards (OSHA‑10/30), math prep, and willingness to travel

What to Bring

  • ID, resume, certifications, and a one‑page project portfolio
  • PPE (if they request a hands‑on assessment)
  • Pen and notepad for instructions and names

After the Interview

  • Send a same‑day thank‑you note with one concrete takeaway
  • Log dates, names, and outcomes in your Portfolio and Logbook

Explore Related Topics:

Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.