In what some have called a dying industry, the Missouri Office of Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning says differently. Workforce Development Board is excited to partner with the Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (DHEWD) to offer Missouri Apprentice Connect providing hundreds of opportunities in Central Missouri for a variety of apprenticeship opportunities.
Apprenticeship Missouri became formalized in 2019, but apprenticeship roots are deep within Missouri. Various state agencies in Missouri began investing in these programs in 2016, and have continued to support thousands of apprentices with several partners.
The continuous investment in this proven model has pushed Missouri to the number 2 spot in national rank in number of new apprenticeships.
What is an apprenticeship?
It’s an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway in which workers can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a transferable credential while job creators develop and prepare their future workforce. Apprenticeships offer:
- A flexible training model that can be customized to meet the needs of every business and industry.
- A viable tool for the state to use to give Missourians the necessary skills to succeed.
- An affordable approach to training and education for the employer and the job seeker.
- An opportunity to earn a paycheck while learning from day one, reducing the potential to take on student debt.
Why an apprenticeship?
Registered Apprenticeship is an employer-driven training model that has many benefits for employers and workers. It’s a flexible training strategy that can be customized to meet the needs of any business. Apprentices can either be new hires or businesses can select current employees who need skills advancement.
The apprenticeship model is leading the way in preparing American workers to compete in today’s economy. Due to direct employer involvement in the educational process, apprenticeship programs keep pace with advancing technologies and innovations in training and talent management.
Need some assistance finding your next career pathway? We’re ready to help! Learn more today…
Apprenticeship Missouri offers some exciting benefits
Workers who complete apprenticeship programs earn an average of $300,000 more over their career when compared to peers who don’t? Doesn’t that good news make you want to sign up right away?
94% of apprentices retain employment after completing an apprenticeship program.
Need more incentive to start finding your new career pathway?
- Apprentices are paid by their employers during training
- Apprenticeship programs provide on-the-job learning and job-related classroom training
- On-the-job learning is conducted in the work setting under the direction of a mentor(s)
- Training results in an industry-recognized and portable credential
Top 5 Questions about Registered Apprenticeships
1) What occupations are apprenticeable?
The United States Department of Labor (USDL) recognizes over 1,300 occupations as apprenticeable, covering a variety of industries.
2) What is the earliest age that an individual can start as an apprentice?
Apprentices can begin as early as 16 and must be in pursuit of their high school diploma or equivalent. All workers under the age of 18 must obtain a work permit and the RA sponsor must ensure the program conforms to all federal and state child labor laws.
3) Can an apprentice earn college credit?
Many apprenticeship programs are linked to postsecondary credentials and the opportunity to earn credit toward a two-year or four-year degree. Some apprenticeship programs are sponsored by the training providers that offer articulated credit for apprenticeship experience.
4) Who pays for an apprenticeship?
Registered Apprenticeships are designed for the employer to invest in the training of the apprentice. There are many resources that can be tapped to find the cost of training. Traditionally apprenticeships should exit an apprenticeship program with no debt.
5) What is the difference between an apprenticeship and an internship?
Apprenticeships are full-time employment combined with on-the-job learning and related classroom instruction. Internships are planned structured learning experiences within a workplace that exist for a limited period of time. Some internships are paid and some are unpaid. All Registered Apprenticeships are paid and result in a USDOL credential.
Ready to get started today?
For Training Providers
Apprenticeship is an established, time-tested career pathway.
Help potential apprentices find success by encouraging them to pursue an apprenticeship and use our service to connect them with valuable opportunities in Central Missouri. You can learn more here.
For Employers
Apprenticeships are your way to connect with and equip your future workforce.
Today, organizations across Central Missouri offer apprenticeship opportunities to help ensure they have access to the skilled workers they need to succeed in tomorrow’s economy. Missouri Apprentice Connect makes it easier than ever to find the apprentices you need.
Apprenticeship Seekers
An apprenticeship is your bridge between school and a profitable career—or a great pathway if you are seeking a career change.
Fortunately, organizations all across Central Missouri offer apprenticeship opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to connect with employers, learn valuable skills in a variety of industries and get a head start on your future!
Need further assistance? Don’t hesitate to contact a Job Center near you today!