(1)    The department may employ competent supervisors, who shall be licensed automatic fire sprinkler contractors or journeymen automatic fire sprinkler system fitters, and may employ other persons.

   (2)   The department shall prescribe rules as to the qualifications, examination and licensing of journeymen automatic fire sprinkler system fitters and automatic fire sprinkler contractors and for the registration and training of automatic fire sprinkler system apprentices. The automatic fire sprinkler system contractors and journeymen council, created under s. 15.407 (17), shall advise the department in formulating the rules.