The Dummy’s Guide to How Apprenticeship Works

In last month’s Apprenticeship Corner, we provided a brief history of apprenticeship.  It’s a practice that dates back to the Middle Ages and has provided invaluable skills to people all over the world.  Let’s explore how such a program works in the modern age.

Apprentices are paid employees that go to school part time and obtain on-the-job training from skilled craftsman in order to learn their trade.  The approach is designed to provide theoretical knowledge in the classroom that workers can then apply practically at work with the guidance of a more senior person to oversees them.  The ratios of both classroom time to on-the-job training to complete the program and apprentices to journeyman in the field vary by program.  These are typically governed by federal and/or state law depending on where the program was approved.

There are many benefits to participation in an apprenticeship program.  Companies get the opportunity to provide high level training for their workers while retaining them as employees.  In addition, the employees get the chance to earn a paycheck while they gain advanced skills – and they can do it without incurring the kind of massive debt that often results from going to college.

Another benefit of apprenticeship is that most programs are industry and skill set driven.  There are separate programs for electrical, plumbing, and even metal building assemblers.  Industry specific apprenticeship training allows for structured training that specifically targets the skill sets needed for that industry and allows for journeymen in a company to mentor workers who are often younger and less skilled.  Participants don’t waste time learning skills that they won’t apply in their job.

Simply stated, apprenticeship is a true win-win situation.  The employee gains significant knowledge and experience; and the employer ensures the strength of its company by delivering quality training for its people.  The result is excellent craftsmanship and safer jobsites. 

Check out the Apprenticeship Corner next month when we discuss the difference between certified and non-certified programs.