Apprenticeship programs today combine structured on-the-job training with classroom instruction to provide students the greatest potential for learning a skilled occupation.  There are thousands of career areas that utilize apprenticeship training.  Traditional areas for apprenticeship include skills in construction and manufacturing areas. Today apprenticeship programs are expanding to include emerging industries such as health care, information technology, energy, telecommunications and more.

A “Registered Apprenticeship” program includes the employer registering with the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Registered Apprenticeship.  Nationally Registered Apprenticeship offers more than 32,000 programs impacting 250,000 employers and over 500,000 apprentices.  In Idaho there are 220 Department of Labor Apprenticeship programs, representing over 400 employers training more than 1200 apprentices.

Apprenticeship programs may be offered at the secondary level at participating high schools. School-to-Registered – Apprenticeship Program (STRAP) allows high school students the opportunity to participate in apprenticeship training as part of their high school classroom activities.   Students wishing to participate must be at least 16 years old and a third year (junior) student in high school.  They will work a reduced work week and can transition from part-time to full time work after graduation.

 Examples of Apprenticeship programs offered in Idaho though higher education institutions:  College of Southern Idaho-CSI, College of Western Idaho-CWI, Eastern Idaho Technical College-EITC, Idaho State University-ISU, Lewis & Clark State College-LCSC, and North Idaho College-NIC.  

Electrical Apprenticeship is a four year program with 576 classroom hours and 8000 hours on–the–job training. This training is required to take the Idaho State Electrical Journeyman Exam.

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation 7 Air Conditioning) Apprenticeship is a four year program with 576 classroom hours and four years of on–the–job training. This training is required to take the Idaho State HVAC Journeyman exam.

Plumbing Apprenticeship is a four year program with 576 classroom hours and four years of on–the–job training. This training is required to take the Idaho State Plumbing Journeyman Exam.

These programs may also be offered by private educational providers or union organizations.

There are many benefits to participating in a Registered Apprenticeship program:

• Earning money while in training is one of the most appealing aspects of an apprenticeship.
• Training is “hands-on” by combining structured on-the-job learning with classroom instruction.
• Earning college credit leading to an associate or bachelor’s degree is available through many programs. This needs to be clarified with the educational provider.
• Apprenticeship is a first step for creating a long-term career.
• Training leading to an industry certification that provides a credential that is nationally recognized.

The Registered Apprenticeship training is a partnership between, Department of Labor, State agencies, employers, labor organizations, and educational institutions.  These programs provide skills and knowledge that business and industry need from employees. For the student or apprentice these programs provide an educational option to earn an income while gaining an education.

Additional information for Registered Apprenticeship programs.

• U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Registered Apprenticeship, www.doleta.gov/oa/
• Office of Apprenticeship (OA) List of Officially Recognized Apprenticeable Occupations

http://www.iowaworkforce.org/apprenticeship/apprenticeableoccupations.pdf

It takes real ambition to think about returning to College. At times this process may feel complicated, confusing and often frustrating as you navigate the channels of investigating careers, colleges and funding opportunities.  You have to think of this as a learning process in itself. And like other things in life after you have done it one time it always seems easier the next time (ie. Feel like you are going crazy registering for your first semester in college, don’t worry the next time it will be much easier).

Knowing the College Lingo

It is important to note there are many educational options to choose from. Your personal goals will lead you to the institution with programs to match your career choice. Do your research and ask questions. (Tips on research and investigating careers may be a topic for another article) Here is a sampling of terminology to be familiar with concerning community colleges and four year colleges or universities and funding options.

Community College:

1. Adult Basic Education includes English as a second language, basic skills improvement and GED completion.
2. Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) lower division transfer two-year degrees are designed to provide the general education foundation to later move on to a four-year degree.
3. Associate of Applied Science (AAS) two-year degree includes hands-on career specific professional technical education designed to lead to employment.  Shorter term Technical Certificates are also offered in career specific areas.
4. Community Education classes provide personal enrichment in a variety of areas for people of all ages. Programs range from summer youth classes to classes specifically designed for seniors.
5. Workforce Development provides short-term skill-building programs focused in growing career areas, customized workforce training for businesses, and on-line courses.

College or University:

1. Undergraduate Degree.  A baccalaureate degree or, “ bachelor’s degree” as it is more commonly referred to,   requires  four-years or more of full time study to complete the degree. There are many areas of emphasis to choose from and the degrees offered will vary by college. Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS), Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) and more. Some colleges may also offer associate degree programs.
2. Graduate Degree. Master’s and doctoral levels of study. Degrees will vary by area of study.

Funding

1. FASFA =  Free  Application for Federal Student Aid . Federal student aid is financial assistance that’s available through the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Federal Student Aid. There are three categories of federal student aid: grants, work-study and loans. This web site will provide additional information www.fafsa.ed.gov
2. There are government supported funding. Check the web sites for eligibility information.

*Idaho Department of Labor, www.labor.idaho.gov

*Vocational Rehabilitation, www.vr.idaho.gov

*Veterans Services, www.veterans.idaho.gov

*Job Corps, www.jobcorps.gov

1. Scholarships.  Ask the college you plan to attend about their scholarship programs. Also inquire with professional organizations in the field you will be studying.
2. Employer Assistance. Some companies provide assistance with college tuition

It ‘s never too late to go to college. Become a lifelong learner knowing your education is something you will enjoy the benefits of for a lifetime!