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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Are apprenticeships available in all industries?

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

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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.

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Do apprentices get paid?

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

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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.

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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

Central Workforce Development Region Signs Lease for New Jefferson City Job Center

Jefferson City is set to have a Missouri Job Center again after several years without one, thanks to a new partnership between the Central Workforce Development Board and First Christian Church Disciples of Christ. The center will offer employment services, resume help, training, and apprenticeship support to job seekers across the community.

First Christian Church to House Missouri Job Center

A new Missouri Job Center is coming to downtown Jefferson City, opening in a partnership between First Christian Church and Missouri Workforce Development this fall.

Hire a Veteran Day Brings Veterans and Employers Together at the Missouri State Capitol

Veterans, employers, and workforce partners gathered at the Missouri State Capitol on Friday, July 24, for Hire a Veteran Day. Missouri Job Center staff from Columbia and Sedalia connected attendees with employment opportunities, career resources, and services designed to support veterans in their next career.

Fast Track Incentive Grant Application Now Open for the 2026-2027 Academic Year

Missouri adults returning to school have a new opportunity to make training affordable. The Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant application is now open for the 2026-2027 academic year, covering tuition, fees, and apprenticeship costs for eligible students pursuing careers in high-demand industries.

The Hardest Words in the Room

Every day, people walk through the doors of Central Region Job Centers and do one of the hardest things a person can do — they ask for help. So why is it so hard for the rest of us to do the same?

A Single Mom Bets on Herself and Builds a Healthcare Career (Stephanie’s Story)

ingle mom Stephanie Stapleton turned a low-wage gas station job into a healthcare career, earning her Medical Assistant certifications with WIOA Adult and Healthy Blue support.

Missouri Jobs Report: June 2026 — Employment Crosses 3 Million and Unemployment Drops to 3.7%

Missouri’s total nonfarm payroll employment crossed 3 million jobs in June 2026, and the unemployment rate fell to 3.7 percent — three-tenths of a point lower than a year ago. Here’s a breakdown of the latest data and what it means for mid-Missouri.

How a Wonderland Camp Partnership Is Turning Internships Into Jobs

A day of service at Wonderland Camp highlighted a partnership that keeps growing stronger, with former summer interns now hired on as camp employees

From the Marine Corps to the ICU: DeAundre’s Story

After separating from the Marine Corps, DeAundre set his sights on nursing. With support from WIOA Dislocated Worker, EDA, and Healthy Blue, he’s now an RN in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit at MU Healthcare.

Missouri Sets Bold Goal: 100,000 New Apprentices by 2027

Missouri has set an ambitious goal: 100,000 new apprentices by September 30, 2027. Here’s what that means for job seekers and employers across mid-Missouri.

The Hardest Words in the Room

Every day, people walk through the doors of Central Region Job Centers and do one of the hardest things a person can do — they ask for help. So why is it so hard for the rest of us to do the same?

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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.

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