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.
