What is an Apprentice

An apprentice is a worker who learns a craft through planned, supervised On-the-Job-Learning (OJL) in conjunction with receiving planned, related technical instruction in a classroom setting.

They are taught the proper use, care and safe handling of tools and equipment used in their work.  Apprentices are a full-time, paid part of the workforce

Apprentices are required to pursue a course of study or enroll in classroom instruction in subjects related to the trade to compliment their on-the-job learning.

Apprenticeship is no snap!!  If someone is looking for a soft touch, apprenticeship isn’t it.  It demands hard work and has tough competition.  An apprentice must have the will to see the program through.  It takes ambition.  It takes drive.  It takes courage.  It takes patience.

With Registered Apprenticeship you receive:

A paycheck

From day one, you will earn a paycheck guaranteed to increase over time as you learn new skills.

Hands-on career training

As an apprentice, you will receive practical on-the-job training in a wide selection of programs, such as health care, construction, information technology and geospatial careers.

An education

You’ll receive hands-on training and have the potential to earn college credit, even an associate or bachelor’s degree, in many cases paid for by your employer.

A career

Once you complete your apprenticeship, you will be on your way to a successful long-term career with a competitive salary, and little or no educational debt.

National industry certification

When you graduate from a career training program, you’ll be certified and can take your certification anywhere in the U.S.

Recognizable partners

Many of the nation’s most recognizable companies have Registered Apprenticeship programs.

How to apply to an Apprenticeship Program

• Call and ask when applications are taken.  Some programs take applications any time their office is open, others are only available at certain times. Make sure you don’t miss an opportunity-get all this information first.
• Find out what documents you need to bring with you.  The programs are required by the Federal Government to keep copies of certain documents. They will return your originals to you. They will not allow you to apply without all documentation.
• Ask if they can send you any materials about their programs.  If after reading those materials, you still have questions, then call the program office and ask for clarification.  Ask if they have a website. Many programs provide excellent information regarding their programs via the internet.
• Dress appropriately when you go in for the interview. For most apprenticeships, the rules are changed. Don’t wear a power suit, tie or other “office” attire. Your best bet is a pair of pants and a shirt with a collar. You want to look neat and clean. Shoes should be low heel. Keep jewelry, hair and makeup low key. This is not a time to make a personal statement with your clothing or hair. If you are not sure find out what current employees wear.
• Make sure you take a pen (one that you know writes!) a sharp pencil, and a list of addresses and phone numbers (from past employers or references) you may need to fill out your application. Be sure to have the proper documentation that the program requires. Ask any references in advance for permission to use their names.
• In your interview emphasize your jobs and hobbies that indicate an interest in the outdoors, fixing or working on your home on your own or helping with alterations or repairs.
• Don’t take your children with you. They will get bored and cause problems both during the interview and the selection process. It may not be fair, but it is how it is. Look at this as your first test of how well your child care system works for you.