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An Introduction to Youth Apprenticeship for Students and Parents

A Youth Apprenticeship is a one or two year “earn while you learn” program for high school juniors and seniors consisting of work and related classroom instruction in a chosen occupation. Training is received on-the-job where the employer teaches the skills of the occupation. This is augmented by taking courses that are related to that occupation. No matter what the youth apprentice decides to do after high school, they will be more prepared for success because of their apprenticeship!

The Benefits of Youth Apprenticeship

A PAYCHECK

From day one, you will earn a paycheck for your work.

HANDS-ON TRAINING

Receive practical on-the-job training in your chosen occupation.

AN EDUCATION

You will learn from both your job and classroom related instruction.

A CAREER

Youth Apprenticeship can lead to a fulfilling, long-term career.

CERTIFICATION

Earn an industry recognized completion certificate.

Youth Apprenticeship Pathways

Youth Apprenticeship (YA) opportunities are organized into 13 broad YA Program Areas. Within each Program Area are a number of more specific Occupational Pathways. Click on the Program Area icons below to find out more about your options!

AFNR Career Cluster Logo

Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources

Careers involve working with plants, animals, and the environment.
AC Career Cluster Logo

Architecture & Construction

Careers involve designing and building homes, roads and other structures.
AV Career Cluster Logo

Arts, Audio Visual Technology & Communications

Careers involve creative tasks, such as performing or writing.
Business Administration Career Cluster Logo

Business Administration

Careers involve planning, oversight, and organizational tasks needed to run a business.
Education Career Cluster Logo

Education

Careers involve planning, managing and providing education services, and related learning support service, and other tasks associated with schools, libraries, and museums.
Finance Career Cluster Logo

Finance

Careers involve managing and working with money.
Health Sciences Career Cluster Logo

Health Sciences

Careers involve helping people with the medical care they need to get or stay healthy.
Hospitality Career Cluster Logo

Hospitality & Tourism

Careers involve providing people with food, lodging, and related services.
IT Career Cluster Logo

Information Technology

Careers involve working with computer hardware, software, or network systems.
Manufacturing Career Cluster Logo

Manufacturing

Careers involve making products, such as food, cars, and household goods.
Marketing Career Cluster Logo

Marketing

Careers involve promoting and selling products and services.
STEM Career Cluster Logo

Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM)

Careers involve solving problems through research and design.
TDL Career Cluster Logo

Transportation, Distribution, & Logistics

Careers involve moving people and products from one place to another.

How Do I Apply?

  1. Determine the Right YA Opportunity for You

    Consider the various career options above and speak to your school counselor, teachers, and parents. Think about whether you would like to work outside or inside, with other people or more by yourself. Exploring your options and preferences will help you find a good YA program match for you!

  2. Learn More and Apply

    Identify the YA Regional Coordinator in your area and talk to them to learn more about the program, its requirements, and benefits. Decide if a Youth Apprenticeship is the right opportunity for you, and if it is, apply!

  3. Interview with Employers in Your Chosen Industry

    Once potential employers have been identified, prepare for your interview. This is a great chance to hone your communication and self-advocacy skills! Your YA Coordinator can help with suggestions and interview tips.

  4. Participate in Employer Orientations, Onboardings, and Safety Trainings

    After a successful interview, you will likely participate in an onsite orientation where, among many other things, you will get to meet your new workplace mentor, work out your schedule, and learn more about workplace expectations.

  5. Participate in Regular Progress Reviews

    As you are learning on the job, your employer will regularly review your progress with you to ensure your success in the program.

  6. Complete Classroom and Worksite YA Requirements

    Upon completion of your Youth Apprenticeship you will receive a state Certificate of Occupational Proficiency from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.

Additional Information & YA Program Questions

Contact DWD staff who oversee the YA at YA@dwd.wisconsin.gov, or find your YA Regional Coordinator to explore options in your local area!