Apprentice programs allow people to train on the job while earning a meaningful living out of it. The trainee is doing a productive job while taking courses for it. By the end of the apprenticeship, the trainee will have valuable experience that is credible and recognized by the industry and they can still advance their career through further studies in the same field. The apprentice programs generally last from two to four years all though some might extend up to six years.

People eligible for apprenticeship are those 16 years of age and above and are willing to work on a full-time basis and earn a minimum wage as stipulated by the state. As their skills advance, their wages increase according to the stipulated agreement between the apprentice and the employer.

Types of apprenticeship programs

There are three distinct types of apprentice programs available, these are:

• Time-based apprentice: where the progress is measured via hours spent on the job and in class.
• Competency-based: where progress is measured by the ability of a trainee to apply skills and knowledge acquired through the training.
• Hybrid: lastly, the hybrid measures the progress through the number of hours and the ability of a trainee to apply skill and knowledge in the workplace.

Apprentice programs can be an initiative of an employer or funded by a sponsor or trade association. In the case of sponsorship, the sponsor works with the labour department or apprentice agencies to curate and develop programs for registration. After that, the sponsor will provide all elements of the program or partner with colleges and community schools, and other providers to deliver a comprehensive apprenticeship-based experience for the trainees.

Is it worth enrolling in an apprentice program?

Apprentice programs have several advantages over conventional community colleges. These advantages go in both directions, both the employer and the apprentice.

After an apprentice completes the program, they have a pathway to successfully secure a job in their area of specialization, for example, information technology, communication, energy sector, and more. An apprentice gets an opportunity to earn industry skills while getting paid. Their monthly wages increase as they continue to master their trade. For example, an apprentice will earn a wage increase every year as their skills grow.

This program provides an alternative way to earn a living to the expensive college qualifications. It is possible to earn college credits learning on the job just like those who pay to attend colleges. You can scale your skills while earning on the job. Apprentices will also learn what is the Apprentice Wage Subsidy. In other words, you can transition from one level to the other while earning a meaningful living.

Advantages of apprentice program to the employer

Apprenticeship programs add great value to including; cultivating a well-trained and talented workforce from the start. The organization can diversify through energetic and enthusiastic talent. The employer has the opportunity to train employees with the right equipment required in the workplace unlike in colleges where most training is theory-based.

The employer benefits a lot because these trainees rarely make errors and accident rates are lower. There is a sense of loyalty and belonging between employees and the employer. There is increased employee retention and talent development. Employers have the chance to field apprentices into challenging positions based on their abilities. Old workers serve as mentors to the new workforce.