What is a Pre Apprenticeship Program & How Does it Work?
Last updated September 15, 2021
Pre apprenticeship programs are stepping stones to get into the career path of your choice. They provide the training you need to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to enter in-demand career paths and enroll in an Apprenticeship Program.
How to find a pre apprenticeship program
These are short-term - a few weeks or a few months - programs and are a way to explore industries and job paths you might be interested in. The highest-quality pre apprenticeship will have a partnership with a registered apprenticeship program to make your transition into that program as smooth as possible.
We recommend using the Apprenticeship Finder tool to look up opportunities near you - or search for “Pre Apprenticeship programs near me” online to see options.
Here are a few examples of different programs around the country:
Urban Technology Project (UTP) - Philadelphia, PA
UTP has a program called Digital Service Fellows Pre Apprenticeship that places young people in a year-long work-training program with a Digital Literacy Teacher in Philadelphia schools so you can learn and earn on the job!
Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC) - Washington State
AJAC offers a 10-week, free training program to young people in Washington State. Their Manufacturing Academy will give you a solid foundational career pathway into aerospace and advanced manufacturing opportunities.
Job Corps - All 50 states
Job Corps offers GED or high school diplomas and industry-recognized certificate programs in 81 high-demand industries. It's free for those between the ages of 16 to 24, and free housing is offered for those that need it.
If you are fresh out of high school or nearly done, these types of programs are a great way to explore the world of work to see what you like and don’t like. This can help you decide on what college you might want to attend, what major you choose, and what kind of work you want to do in the future!
If you have questions about pre apprenticeships, just text "Hello" to 33-55-77 and we'll walk you through how they work, how to find one, and what kind of options are in your area!