Apprenticeships: A Pathway to a Rewarding Career

What Is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is your ticket to unlocking a world of possibilities. Dive headfirst into your chosen trade, gaining hands-on experience and technical training. Lasting typically two to four years, apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, equipping you with the expertise and confidence to excel in your desired field.  

Find an Apprenticeship Program

Finding the apprenticeship program that is right for you will take some time and research. A great place to start is apprenticeship.gov or CareerOneStop.org, which offer searchable databases of apprenticeship programs in your area. You can also research programs through labor unions in your area, local community colleges that partner with local apprenticeship programs, and your state’s website.  Lastly, don't underestimate the power of networking. Seek referrals from family, friends, or acquaintances already working in your preferred industry. Create a list of top programs you're interested in and compare them in terms of program length, cost, potential wage earnings and future career opportunities. 

Work With an Experienced Mentor

One of the main components of an apprenticeship program is working with experienced mentors in your desired field. Mentors can provide hands-on training opportunities, coaching, and insight to help appreciates learn skills quickly. Apprentices typically interact with their mentor daily and build great relationships along the way. Your mentor will be the one to evaluate you throughout your program and can help offer you personalized support. 

Take Corresponding Courses

Another main pillar in an apprenticeship program is completing coursework that will help you be successful in your career. This coursework can happen in a classroom setting such as a local community college, online, or at a job site. Subjects will vary so check with the company offering the programs you’re considering to verify what coursework needs to be completed. 

Earn a Paycheck While You Train

Often apprentices will get paid while completing their apprenticeship program, making this a great option for those wanting further education without losing out on a paycheck. Typically, this is given as either a stipend or time-based pay. Depending on the program, you may also be able to increase your wages as you gain more experience throughout the program. 

Get Nationally Certified

While researching apprenticeship programs, it’s important to review if the program is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor. Registered programs can offer nationally accredited certification, and although not always required, in many industries and states it is. You can verify a program’s accreditation by using the apprenticeship.gov verification tool.  

The Stages of an Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship typically involves several stages, including: 

• Recruitment/application — Apprenticeship programs often have specific requirements such as minimum age, educational background, assessment scores, or physical abilities.  
• Selection/interview — Some programs are highly competitive. Be prepared to share what makes you the right fit for the program during an interview. 
• Induction/onboarding — Once selected you will be given specific onboarding instruction that will likely include uniforms, paperwork, materials/tools needed, and more. 
• On-the-job training — Completing on-the-job training will be a significant part of your apprenticeship program experience and help you develop the skills needed for completion. 
• Classroom/technical instruction — Programs often include instruction either in a classroom or on the job. 
• Skill development/progression — You must demonstrate a certain level of skill before completing the program. Mentors and your on-the-job training will help you progress. 
• Assessments/evaluations — Throughout your program you will have to complete a variety of assessments and evaluations from your mentor(s). 
• Certification/completion — Once you have met all the requirements, including demonstrating all the skills needed, you will complete the apprenticeship program and are ready to seek employment. 
• Transition to employment/further education — Once you’ve completed the apprenticeship program you’ll have a few options. You can look for work right away, continue your education by specializing your skills with advanced training, or diversify your skills by completing additional education in a related field. 

Each stage is designed to help you develop the skills and experience necessary to succeed in your chosen field.  

Embrace the opportunity apprenticeships offer to gain practical experience and technical training in a skilled trade. By following the steps outlined above you'll be on your way to unlocking a world of apprenticeship possibilities. Take charge of your future and embark on a journey that leads to a fulfilling and prosperous career.