Pre-apprenticeship programs provide real-world career experience for both students and adults
Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Director Matt Damschroder reminds high school students, parents, educators and others that pre-apprenticeship programs can be great pathways to successful careers.
“Ohio has 152 pre-apprenticeship programs,” Damschroder said. “They’re excellent opportunities for students to explore careers while working part-time in their communities and fulfilling their graduation requirements. Many pre-apprenticeship programs are available for adults, as well, to give them a taste of an occupation and see if they’d like to pursue a full apprenticeship.”
ODJFS oversees ApprenticeOhio, which registers apprenticeship programs that meet national criteria for quality and safety. Pre-apprenticeship programs typically operate as partnerships between employers and schools. Pre-apprentices learn both technical and job-readiness skills.
When they complete their programs, they have multiple options: They can pursue higher education, a job, and/or a registered apprenticeship.
If pre-apprentices go on to become registered apprentices, they will be full-time employees from Day One. They’ll earn a salary while they learn the skills they need for an in-demand occupation. Apprentices receive on-the-job training from an expert worker. They also participate in related instruction – in a classroom, online, in a shop or a lab – that applies directly to their career. When they complete their programs, they earn a nationally recognized certificate, without the burden of typical student loan debt.
Ohio has 109 pre-apprenticeship programs for youth ages 16 to 20, 36 pre-apprenticeship programs for individuals 16 or older, and seven pre-apprenticeship programs for individuals 21 or older. Most of the programs are in manufacturing and architecture/construction. However, there also are opportunities in information technology, hospitality and tourism, health science and education. Other industries with pre-apprenticeships include law enforcement, transportation, agriculture, STEM fields, business management and administration, and the arts, communication and marketing.
To learn more about pre-apprenticeships, visit Workforce.Ohio.gov/pre-apprenticeship.
To explore pre-apprenticeships in your area, visit Apprentice.Ohio.gov and fill out the “Contact Us” form – or visit your local OhioMeansJobs Center. Every county has an OhioMeansJobs Center. To find the center near you, visit OhioMeansJobs.com and click on “FIND A JOB CENTER” at the bottom of the page.