Do you learn best by working in the field?
Do you prefer hands on training vs studying a book?
Does the concept “earn while you learn” appeal to you?
Does the thought of student debt make you sick to your
stomach?
If you answer yes to any of these questions, consider an
apprenticeship. An apprenticeship can prepare you for the career of
choice by gaining real world experience in the field. You will get
first-hand knowledge of how the industry works by observing and assisting
experienced professionals. After you complete your training program you
are off on your own. And the best part…you will be earning $$$$,
typically 50 to 60 percent of your eventual wages, from the get go.
Sounds too good to be true right? Keep in mind,
companies and businesses will invest a good deal of time and money into the
individuals they choose for these programs. You must interview for an
apprenticeship just like you would for a job. This is not like an
internship where you are exploring career interests for a good fit.
People choose to start out as an apprentice because they intend to stay in that
career field for a long time. So, early research for job compatibility is
essential. You need to enter into an apprenticeship program with the expectation
of working for that company or organization. In some cases a company may
have the apprentice under contract for a specified period of time after the
training program is complete. And YES, you still may be required to study
and take tests. To be in compliance with current industry standards, a
trainee may need to be certified in their field. This of course
varies from job to job so don’t throw out those number two pencils just
yet. Understanding the requirements of a profession is just another reason why prior
career research is important.
Most apprenticeships available now are for workers in the
skilled trade industries such as electricians, carpenters, HVAC techs,
plumbers, and pipe fitters. However, the apprenticeship model can be
applied to many different career fields and new opportunities are popping up
every day. These may include information technology, healthcare,
transportation, and advanced manufacturing. Get started by going online to
company websites for apprenticeship openings. They will list the
application process, job expectations, compensation, and other
requirements. Go to www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov
for more information on The Iowa Registered Apprenticeship system. Also
try https://www.indeed.com/q-Apprenticeship-l-Iowa-jobs.html
for a listing of open apprenticeships in Iowa.
Jessica - ICAN Ankeny Center
