Youth Apprenticeship (YA) integrates school-based and work-based learning to instruct students in employability and occupational skills defined by Wisconsin industries. Local programs provide training based on statewide youth apprenticeship curriculum guidelines, endorsed by business and industry. Students are instructed by qualified teachers and skilled worksite mentors. Students are simultaneously enrolled in academic classes to meet high school graduation requirements, in a youth apprenticeship related instruction class, and are employed by a participating employer under the supervision of a skilled mentor. More at the Wisconsin Dept. of Workforce Development.
Key elements of the youth apprenticeship program are:
•Industry-developed skill standards applied to student’s work experience
•Exposure to multiple aspects of the career and industry
•Skilled mentors assigned to train the students
•Paid on-the-job work experience
•Related classroom instruction concurrent with work-based learning
•Curriculum guidelines for all programs
•Performance evaluation of demonstrated competencies
•State-issued skill certificate
Student Requirements: Career-passionate students in grade 11 or 12 and have completed or participating in related coursework to match the apprenticeship. Example: A student enrolled in a Bradley Tech/MATC welding class can apply for a manufacturing apprenticeship, or a student completing the PLTW course in architecture and civil engineering apply for an architectural or drafting apprenticeship.
Employer Requirements: Post a job description, interview and directly hire a student. Complete the education/training written agreement found at the Wisconsin DWD website. Place student with mentoring staff, provide on-the-job training, worksite performance feedback and guidance to assist in developing a successful employee. Communicate with MPS and Bradley Tech support staff as needed.
More about Youth Apprenticeships
Student and employers determine a schedule in order to meet the program requirements of 450 hours. For a two semester program or 900 hours for a four semester program. Students can begin the Youth Apprenticeship during the school year, or start the job as early as June after the student’s sophomore year. Students can work during school holidays and vacations.
Employers can follow a self-paced, audio Power Point presentation for additional clarification on components of the employer role in YA. Information covered includes Employer Benefits for participation, the Employer and Mentor role, and Program Participation and Operation at your worksite. Note: This module may take up to two full minutes to load the first time it is accessed.
Implementing Youth Apprenticeship at your Worksite.
Helpful downloads:
MPS Youth Apprentice Flyer
YA Fast Facts for Students
YA Fast Facts for Employers