Apprenticeship Missouri

The Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (DHEWD) is taking apprenticeships to the next level, preparing employees for jobs while meeting the needs of business for a highly-skilled workforce.

Understanding the Process

The Path to Success

What?

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.

Why?

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. 

How?

Job seekers are matched with employers or training providers in their desired industry. Job seekers receive training, while receiving employment and employers have the opportunity to lead and train their next great team member. It’s a win-win for everyone! 

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.

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.

App 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!

Take the First Step Towards Your Future

Join the ranks of successful apprentices by connecting with employers and training providers today. Our programs offer a unique blend of on-the-job training and classroom instruction, setting you up for a prosperous career. Don’t wait—start your journey with us now!

Apprenticeship by the Numbers

National Rank in Number of New Apprenticeships

Active Apprentices

Registered Programs

Employers

Core Components Overview

Key Elements of Registered Apprenticeships

Employer Engagement

Employers are integral in crafting and guiding apprenticeship programs, ensuring they meet industry standards and workforce needs.

Structured On-the-Job Learning

Apprentices receive hands-on training directly from experienced mentors, applying skills in real-world settings.

Technical Instruction

Participants engage in academic and technical education that complements their on-the-job training, delivered by various educational institutions or the employer.

Skill-Based Rewards

As apprentices enhance their skills and knowledge, they earn incremental wage increases, motivating continued growth and achievement.

National Certification

Graduates earn a nationally recognized credential, validating their expertise and proficiency in their chosen field.

Common Questions About Apprenticeships

u

What are the benefits of an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience, a salary while learning, and a nationally recognized credential upon completion, making them an excellent career pathway.

u

How do I find an apprenticeship?

Our platform connects you with local employers offering apprenticeship opportunities. You can search by industry, location, and other criteria to find the right fit.

u

What qualifications do I need to start an apprenticeship?

Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some may have additional requirements, which will be specified by the employer or training provider.

u

Can apprenticeships lead to permanent employment?

Yes, many apprenticeships lead to permanent positions with the employer, as they are designed to develop skilled workers who can meet the company’s needs.

u

Are apprenticeships available in all industries?

While not every industry offers apprenticeships, many sectors, including healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and construction, have robust programs available.

u

How long does an apprenticeship last?

The duration varies by program and industry, typically ranging from one to six years, depending on the complexity of the skills being learned.

u

Do apprentices get paid?

Yes, apprentices receive a salary that increases as they gain skills and experience throughout the program.

u

What support is available during an apprenticeship?

Apprentices receive mentorship, on-the-job training, and classroom instruction, with support from both employers and training providers.

u

How do apprenticeships differ from internships?

Apprenticeships are structured programs combining work and study, leading to a credential, while internships are often shorter, less formal, and may not offer a credential.

Central Region News

A Move, a Job Search, and a New Chapter in Social Work for Antoinette Agosto

After a resume review at the Columbia Job Center, Antoinette Agosto used JVSG services to land a full-time social worker role with Good Shepherd Hospice in under a month.

A Janitorial Job Was All Jillian Knew. A Preschool Classroom Showed Her What She Wanted

high school senior with only janitorial work behind her, Jillian Boyles used the WIOA In-School Youth program to test a career in childcare, and turned a paid Work Experience at Tiger Tots into a real job.

A GED Wasn’t in Her Past. A Classroom Full of Kids Is Now Her Future. (Hannah’s Success Story)

Ashley built a career as a Certified Medical Assistant, then decided to go further. With support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, she earned her nursing degree and RN license, and now earns nearly $12 more per hour.

Missouri Education Agencies Partner with Google to Provide Free AI Training

Missouri is partnering with Google to expand free access to AI training, Google Career Certificates and education tools for job seekers, students and educators across the state.

A Move, a Job Search, and a New Chapter in Social Work for Antoinette Agosto

When veteran Eddie Agosto walked into the Columbia Job Center looking for direction, he found more than a resume review. Through the Jobs for Veterans State Grant program, he landed a role that puts his social work background to meaningful use.

Missouri Jobs Report: July 2026 — Nearly 30,000 Jobs Added Year-Over-Year as Unemployment Falls to 3.6%

Missouri added 8,100 jobs in July 2026, unemployment fell to 3.6 percent, and year-over-year job growth reached nearly 30,000 positions. Here’s a breakdown of the latest labor market data and what it means for workers and employers across mid-Missouri.

What Students Can Teach Us About Showing Up

Every August, students walk into buildings they have never been in before and agree to spend months learning things they do not yet understand. What if the rest of us did the same? Here is what students can teach us about showing up.

A Certified Medical Assistant, Ashley Wanted More. Nursing School Delivered It

Ashley built a career as a Certified Medical Assistant, then decided to go further. With support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, she earned her nursing degree and RN license, and now earns nearly $12 more per hour.

Keeoctea Hightower Wanted a Fresh Start. The Central Region Job Center Helped Her Find One

Veteran Keeoctea Hightower came to the Columbia Job Center for resume help and career guidance. With support from Wagner-Peyser and JVSG services, she landed full-time employment at a VA hospital.

Central Region Joins Local Partners At Lebanon Summer Outreach Event

Free community resources came together at the Lebanon YMCA this summer, with the Central Workforce Development Region on hand to connect attendees with job seeker services.

Tune into the podcast

The Workforce Link Podcast with Sundi Jo Graham

The Workforce Link Podcast offers forward thinking conversations for the workforce, linking employers and job seekers to a brighter tomorrow. 

Hosted by Sundi Jo Graham from the Central Workforce Development Board, The Workforce Link covers job searching, resume and interview tips, leadership, personal development, and features interviews with industry leaders from the private and public sectors.

Translate »