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Become an Apprentice

What are the benefits of an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship can be seen as an opportunity multiplier.
Allows one to gain a transferable industry recognized credential (journey workers card), without having the cost that a college degree comes with.
You don’t have to wait until high school graduation to start working in your desired field, if you know what you really want to do.
Apprentices are paid during their on-the-job training and classroom hours.
Apprenticeships are not just for the skilled trades! UPMW has apprenticeships in healthcare, education, and technology.
Competency-based programs rather than time-based allow apprentices who are excelling to finish sooner than their time-based counterparts.

What benefits does UPMW provide to job seekers via an apprenticeship?

Every apprentice is paired with both a UPMW case manager and a journey worker / supervisor on the job ensuring that they have as much support as they need to succeed.
We offer an array of supportive services to apprentices who may need help with gas money, work attire, or tools.

How do job seekers express their interest in an apprenticeship opportunity?

Job seekers can visit any UPMW office and ask to talk to a case manager about apprenticeships and any other services we may be able to offer.
They can also email apprentice@upmichiganworks.org

What draws a job seeker to an apprenticeship instead of other training and education?

With apprenticeships you get paid to learn, rather than paying to learn.
Apprenticeships tend to be more hands on than typical training or education paths.
Can start working towards desired career pathway while in high school

How have apprenticeships and skilled trades evolved over the years?

Many people associate the word apprenticeship with skilled trades or unions. The truth is that there are more that 950 occupations that the Department of Labor recognizes as being apprenticeable.
Some industries that you may not realize are apprenticeable:
- Accommodation and Food
- Services
- Agriculture
- Educational Services
- Finance
- Health Care
- Information Technologies
- Management