What is an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships have been around since ancient times, allowing craftsmen to supervise and pass along knowledge to younger generations. The purpose of these relationships is to maintain the quality of a trade. Nowadays, apprenticeships include time in the classroom. According to the Department of Labor, apprentices are required around 144 hours of classroom time for every 2,000 hours of workplace training.
Benefits of Apprenticeships
Learn and earn money at the same time
Unlike many students who pay to take classes, you will have the opportunity to make money as you learn.
Become an industry-recognized professional
Upon completion of the program, you will have all the credentials you need to start working right away.
Advance your career
If you want, you can build upon your apprenticeship. With the hands-on career training you received, you will be prepared for more responsibilities.
Network
Because you are learning from professionals, you will make connections with all the people you work with. When you are done with your program, this network will serve you well.
Choose from so many different industries
This includes construction, automotive, hospitality, energy, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare.
How to Become an Apprentice
Earn a high school diploma or a general education diploma
For most formal apprenticeship programs, this is the minimum educational requirement. This works out since the minimum age requirement is typically 18 years old.
Update your resume
If you are applying for an apprenticeship program, you will need a resume of your experience and accomplishments.
Find a program that interests you
As listed above, you can find a training program for all sorts of careers. The U.S. Department of Labor has resources for you to explore more about potential apprenticeships.
If studying in college doesn’t feel like the right fit for you, consider an apprenticeship. There are all different paths to success; all you have to do is find the one that’s right for you.