Registered Apprenticeships
Jewelers, tool and die makers, surgical technologists; all these occupations have apprenticeship programs that can prepare and launch you in the field of your choice. They offer an entry-level position with the opportunity to learn, earn and move up a career ladder.
Whatever your interest, Registered Apprenticeship has a program for you. More than 468,000 like-minded adults have taken that first step and are currently enrolled. With hands-on training, and the potential to earn college credit, it's a great option that leads to long-term career opportunities. And, upon completing an apprenticeship program, apprentices earn a nationally recognized industry certification.
College is an important step for high school graduates, but the cost of tuition and the likelihood of debt before even starting a career may be a serious cause for concern. Did you know that Registered Apprenticeship works directly with many two- and four-year colleges and universities to provide the technical classroom instruction that many employers demand from today's competitive workforce? And many employers will help pay the cost of tuition, books, and other materials.
Like college, though, no one ever said apprenticeship was easy. With employers making such an investment of time and money, it is important that an apprentice is committed and prepared to tackle the rigorous curriculum developed for the program they choose. This commitment will pay off not only financially, but also by helping you develop the work habits necessary for success in today's competitive 21st century workplace.
Working with your parents and guidance counselors, you can identify industries and occupations that interest you and take advantage of the benefits of having an industry expert or mentor help train and prepare you to be an expert, too. There are apprenticeship offices in all 50 states, making it simple to learn about the programs available in your area. Upon enrollment, you will receive training and have the advantage of working closely with a mentor, who will guide you through each phase of your apprenticeship and teach you the necessary skills, safety requirements, and important tricks of the trade. As your skill level rises, so will your wages. Also, as your skill level increases, you may be able to earn interim credentials that chart your progress and help advance your career as you work towards completion of a program, anywhere from one to five years. All the while, you'll be making good money and developing strong work habits and skills. Once you have completed an apprenticeship, your pay will rival that of college graduates and even those with advanced degrees. The average salary for a worker who has completed a Registered Apprenticeship program is $45,000 a year, with some earning as much as $65,000 and more. With many apprenticeships leading to a two- or four-year degree, that degree, along with the hands-on experience you will obtain, will make your employer stand up and notice that you have taken the initiative to meet and exceed the requirements needed to compete for good jobs at great pay.
To learn more about Registered Apprenticeship, or to get contact information for your State apprenticeship office, log on to http://www.doleta.gov/OA/. Also, to explore the career options available to you in high growth industries that offer good wages and a bright future, log on to http://www.careervoyages.gov/.
Editorial provided by John V. Ladd, Administrator for the National Office of Apprenticeship.
