What is Apprentice Training?

If you like the challenge of learning a new skill, if you have good aptitude, and if you like to earn while you learn, a registered apprentice training program could be for you.

Apprenticeship is the process of learning a skilled occupation through both on-the-job training (practical, paid experience) and learning the related technical knowledge in a classroom. You must be 18 years old, or be 16 years old with parental approval.

The length of training varies from one to six years, depending on the occupation. Training is given under the guidance of experienced master workers.

Sponsor an Apprenticeship Training Program

Apprenticeship training is a method that combines actual work experience with classroom related instruction and produces a worker skilled in the occupation, who is capable of exercising independent judgement and who subscribes to the highest standards of professional conduct. There is a written agreement between the apprentice and the employer, which acknowledges their joint commitment to the training process. This agreement is approved by the New York State Department of Labor. Registration of your apprenticeship training program guarantees that your workforce will be consistently trained at the highest skill levels, that your program will be nationally recognized, and that you are entitled to the benefits of registered apprenticeship under Department of Labor laws and regulations.

Employers experience benefits in two categories: economic and intrinsic. The economic benefits are derived from your eligibility to pay apprentice wages (usually 40% - 50 % of journey worker wages). Registered apprenticeship sponsors are also exempted from paying overtime to apprentices for the related instruction portion of their training. Also, you may be entitled to tax credits if you hire people who meet specific criteria or if your business is located in specific areas. Furthermore, many sponsors report reduced turnover. We believe this is because the apprentice knows that the employer values trained employees; thus, employee morale is improved.

The intrinsic benefits are many. Overall, apprentices in registered training programs know they have jobs in the future. By working for an employer who values life long learning, apprentices become invested in improving their skills and in achieving a Certificate of Completion which is a nationally recognized credential. Because apprentices not only learn the techniques of a trade but also understand why they do what they do, they become good problem solvers, work better as team members, and demonstrate better interpersonal skills. Apprentices become skilled, motivated craft workers with a strong work ethic who are well versed in company policy, who average better attendance, who possess the latest technological skills and who fill critical needs for skilled workers in the face of retirements and the need to be highly productive with a reduced workforce. Apprentices become skilled craft workers, flexible and productive, who are dedicated to the industry and the specific employer.