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?
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Are apprenticeships available in all industries?
While not every industry offers apprenticeships, many sectors, including healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and construction, have robust programs available.
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.
Do apprentices get paid?
Yes, apprentices receive a salary that increases as they gain skills and experience throughout the program.
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.
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
Walk-In-Wednesdays Brings 57 Job Seekers and 9 Employers Together in Columbia for April Hiring Event
The Columbia Job Center hosted its April Walk-In-Wednesdays hiring event, connecting 57 job seekers with 9 local employers for on-the-spot interviews and real hiring conversations in Columbia, Missouri.
Veteran and Spouse Hiring Fair Connects 42 Job Seekers with Missouri Employers
The Columbia Job Center and Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital hosted a Veteran and Spouse Hiring Fair on April 21, 2026, connecting 42 job seekers — including 32 veterans — with regional employers in Columbia, Missouri.
Pulaski County Maintains Work Ready Community Status
Pulaski County Clerk Dave Ernst accepted the award on behalf of the county, presented by COPIC Executive Director Trish Rogers, recognizing maintained Certified Work Ready Community status for Program Year 2025.
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.
Episode 81: Why Your Emotions Are Blocking Your Job Search Success
Your resume might not be the problem. In Episode 81 of The Workforce Link Podcast, we break down how anxiety and self-doubt quietly sabotage your job search and what you can do about it.