Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a business-driven training model that builds worker skills and establishes pathways to sustainable employment, and in turn, develops a highly-skilled, invested employee.
Quality apprenticeship programs consist of several required components:
- full-time, paid employment
- formal on-the-job learning with a mentor
- related technical instruction in a classroom setting
- scheduled pay increases that correspond with experience
- industry-recognized credentials
In Pennsylvania, apprenticeship programs register with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Apprenticeship and Training Office (ATO). Not only does registration attest to program quality and industry standardization, but it earns recognition for the sponsoring organization, participating employers, and enrolled apprentices. It also unlocks federal and state funding opportunities through the PA CareerLink® for eligible apprentices enrolled in a registered program.
Pre-apprenticeship programs are another career-based training opportunity that builds a pathway to registered apprenticeship. Unlike apprentices, pre-apprentices are not employees. Their structured program builds skills through classroom-based learning and hands-on training that can be applied to the registered apprenticeship requirements. Pre-apprenticeship programs are available to school-aged youth as well as adults.
Advance Central PA can connect employers and training providers with resources to learn more about apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship program development, partnership building, funding advice, and opportunities for apprentice recruitment.
Contact Advance Central PA at Training@AdvanceCentralPA.org and visit the PA CareerLink® website for more information.
Registered Apprenticeship in Central PA
Registered apprenticeship programs operating within the Central Workforce Development Area (WDA) are sponsored by diverse organizations including Unions, education and training providers, and private employers. These sponsoring organizations, located within the Central WDA or across the Commonwealth, partner with local Unions and businesses who employ and provide the on-the-job training to apprentices.
As of 2024, there are 580 active apprentices living and working in the Central WDA. Over half of apprentices participate in Construction Industry apprenticeships, representing occupations like Electricians, Carpenters, and Plumbers. Industries like Manufacturing and Public Administration, which includes Correction Officers, are also well represented in the Central WDA. There are over 50 apprenticeship occupations represented and 74% of active apprentices are Union affiliated.
Source: Apprenticeship.gov; Data and Statistics: Apprenticeship by State Dashboard