Apprenticeship Career Planning

An apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction under supervision of a journeyman/woman

Starting an apprenticeship is similar to getting a job - you have to decide on a program you’re interested in, apply for the apprenticeship, interview with the program staff, and be accepted into the program

Did you Know?

There are pre-apprenticeship programs available for high school students!

Pre-apprenticeship programs teach foundational skills and can help you land an apprenticeship after graduation

Running Start

Pierce County Skills Center (PCSC)

Job Corps

Preparing for an Apprenticeship

If you're interested in an apprenticeship there are things you can do in high school to prepare

NOTE: Every Union and their apprenticeships have their own rules and requirements! What is true for one might not be the same for another. Make sure you know exactly what a particular Union wants to see in their applicants.

High School Classes

All unions require some type of assessment as part of the application process. The tests are different but all test on ELA and Math. Many also want to see science as well. It's important to keep taking these classes, especially Senior year! Even if you have met the 'minimum' high school graduation requirement, keep in mind taking more will strengthen your application.

Pre-Apprenticeships and Applied Skills

Apprenticeships also want to see how do you do with hands-on concepts in math and science. Participating in pre-apprenticeship programs such as the Pierce County Skills Center or Technical Colleges through Running Start are excellent opportunities to get this hands-on training.

Running Start

Pierce County Skills Center (PCSC)

Job Corps

Apprenticeships

Description

Combines on-the-job training with related classroom instruction under the supervision of a journey-level professional
Apprentices get paid while they learn and develop knowledge, skills, and abilities in a new career field
After completing a registered apprenticeship program, apprentices receive a professional credential that is recognized nationwide

Eligibility

Be at least 16 years or older, or in the case of hazardous occupations, 17 years or older
Be able to perform the work, with or without reasonable accommodation
High school diploma or equivalency such as a GED

Apprenticeship Career Opportunities

Registered apprenticeships are available in hundreds of occupations in many different fields
Some apprenticeships are in traditional trades (ex: plumbers and ironworkers) but many are offered other areas technology and the medical field.

NOTE: Be careful - if a company hires you but the apprenticeship is not officially registered with the state you will not receive the benefits of a registered apprenticeship, including working as a journey-level professional!

Where to Find an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships can be hard to get. It can often come down to "who you know". Don't underestimate the impact of pre-apprenticeship programs and contacts.

Employers, employer associations, and labor unions sponsor apprenticeship programs

Apprenticeship Registration Tracking Systems (ARTS)

Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC)

ApprenticeshipUSA

Counseling Department

Bethel Virtual Academy