What are Apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are industry-driven, high-quality career pathways that benefit both businesses and workers. Through apprenticeships, employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction and a portable, nationally recognized credential. This earn-while-you-learn model provides an affordable path to and through college. Education is a key component of any apprenticeship program in Utah. Combined with paid, on-the-job training from the apprenticeship sponsor, classroom instruction gives apprentices the skills needed to earn a national, industry-recognized certificate or credential.

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Why Consider Apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are valuable, work-based learning opportunities that can provide youth with academic and relevant workplace skills that lead to post-secondary education opportunities and careers. Businesses, workforce professionals, educators and others are looking to pre-apprenticeship and youth apprenticeship as an effective way to start high school students and other youth on a career pathway that leads to good wages and opportunities for advancement. In Utah, a fully proficient worker can earn up to $60,000 annually upon completion of an apprenticeship.

As an educator, you know that different students learn in different ways. For students who prefer a hands-on approach to learning, apprenticeship programs are offered in an ever-growing number of industries, including construction, manufacturing, energy, transportation, healthcare, telecommunications and IT. These apprenticeships can be connected with current Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways and provide apprentices with the education they need to jumpstart their careers without going into debt.

Need Direction or Advice?

Schedule an appointment with an Apprenticeship Program Specialist

What Roles Do Educators Play in Apprenticeships?

Whether you are a middle school, high school or post-secondary educator, understanding and getting involved with apprenticeships will give you a broad range of options to help your students determine their career paths.

Create opportunities for applied learning: Develop curriculum, deliver classroom instruction and provide pathways to a career, college degree and/or certification
Connect with employers: Build relationships with industry leaders to better prepare students for the workforce
Start a program: Partner with local employers to manage an apprenticeship program at your educational institution