294 Part 3 Career Planning
may lead to immediate employment, but several more years of training
are usually required. The training is gained through a registered
apprenticeship. This is an advanced training program that operates
under standards approved by the Offi ce of Apprenticeship.
There are approximately 28,000 apprenticeship programs registered
with the Offi ce of Apprenticeship. New programs are continually
being added. See 14-5 for a sample listing of several job categories
for which an apprenticeship program exists. Complete details on
registered apprenticeships can be obtained by directly contacting the
U.S. Department of Labor Offi ce of Apprenticeship (www.doleta.gov/OA/
eta_default.cfm). For additional information, you can conduct your own
Internet search using the search term apprenticeship programs.
A high school diploma or equivalent certifi cate is the general
requirement for entering an apprenticeship. However, application
requirements may differ in various states and from one trade to another.
An applicant must be at least 16 years of age and meet the program
qualifi cations. Generally, applicants prove they have the ability, aptitude,
and education to master the basics of the occupation and complete the
related instruction required in the program. Many apprentice programs are
diffi cult to enter. In some training programs, it is not unusual to have several
hundred applicants for 25 new apprentice positions.
Apprentice programs require that the apprentice learn the entire trade,
not just parts of it. This is accomplished by breaking down each trade
into basic skill blocks. As apprentices complete each block, their skill and
understanding of the trade grows and their pay increases. A basic math
skills test is usually required for admission to a large number of apprentice
programs. Most apprenticeships take about four years to complete.
What factors should
you consider when
choosing a provider of
occupational training?
Reflect
Further
14-5
There are many
apprenticeship programs
for you to consider besides
these.
Examples of Apprenticeship Programs
Air Transport Pilot Graphic Designer
Automotive Technician Specialist Hotel Associate
Boiler Operator Machinist
Carpenter Mechanic
Certifi ed Nursing Assistant Medical Transcriptionist
Crime Scene Technician Paramedic
Computer Programmer Pharmacist Assistant
Construction Craft Laborer Pipefi tter
Dental Assistant Press Operator
Dispatcher Truck Driver
Electrician Welder
Film Editor Veterinary Technician