Apprenticeship Programs

What is apprenticeship? Apprenticeship is a structured system of training designed to prepare individuals for occupations in skilled trades and crafts. Apprenticeship combines related classroom instruction with on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced workers. An apprentice who successfully completes the prescribed number of hours of training in a registered apprenticeship program is awarded a certificate of completion.

What does apprenticeship offer?

Now – today, workers learn while they earn. Tomorrow, workers who complete apprenticeship programs can expect to hold good jobs at good pay! Their skills are a source of personal satisfaction as well as employment security. Statistics show that apprentices earn higher wages, have more stable work records, and are promoted sooner and more often than workers who have not been trained through apprenticeship programs.

Who is eligible?

Apprentices are selected on the basis of qualification without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, or national origin.

What kinds of jobs are covered?

There are more than 800 apprenticeable occupations. Apprenticeship opportunities are constantly expanding into new fields such as allied health services, energy, and textile occupations. All the occupations are listed on the United States Department of Labor/Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (BAT) website at

http://www.doleta.gov/BAT

How much are apprentices paid?

The beginning wages for apprentices are approximately 50 percent of those earned by skilled workers. Wages are increased periodically as apprentices make satisfactory progress. Apprentices nearing the end of their apprenticeship program generally earn 90 to 95 percent of the average wage of the occupation.

What is needed to qualify for apprenticeship?

Qualifications vary according to the requirements of the occupation. However, all apprenticeship programs require applicants to be at least 16 years old and physically able to perform the job. All companies prefer and most require a high school diploma or equivalent certificate. Some training beyond high school may enhance opportunities in apprenticeship programs and allow apprentices to progress through a program more quickly and easily.

How long is an apprenticeship program?

Apprenticeships can last from one to six years, but most last three to four years.

How can a person get more information on apprenticeship programs?

A representative of the BAT or the State Apprenticeship Office (SAO) will be happy to explain in detail how the apprenticeship program works. They can also help in locating the nearest apprenticeship school for the occupation considered.

For more information, contact the

State Apprenticeship Office
Arkansas Department of
Workforce Education
Three Capitol Mall
Little Rock, AR 72201-1083
Phone: (501) 682-1360
Fax: (501) 682-1355

http://www.work-ed.state.ar.us

or the

United States Department of Labor
Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training
Federal Building, Room 3507
700 West Capitol Avenue
Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: (501) 324-5415

http://www.doleta.gov/BAT