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The financial and insurance services industry is a changing an expanding sector of the U.S. economy. Bank branch operations offer a wide range of services from internet banking, 24-hour call centers, and consolidation. This Youth Apprenticeship occupational area focuses on three pathways within the Finance industry:
Individuals who are attracted to this sector have strong communication skills, technical skills, fluency in computers, and interest in math and accounting.
Students can choose between three different occupational areas with options to specific pathways.
In this pathway, students will learn basic accounting services such as: maintaining accounts, storing financial records, processing checks and journal entries, and balancing accounts after recording transactions. There is one area to choose from:
In this pathway, students will learn basic banking services such as: using a computer to process and file transactions, following cash management procedures, processing personal cash and personal check deposits, and responding to customer account inquires. There is one area to choose from:
In this pathway, students will learn about maintaining, processing, and identifying insurance services with clients. There is one area to choose from:
Below are some examples of careers in each pathway and their mean wages. Visit the Occupational Employer Statistics page to find average wages for a specific occupation not listed.
Accountants and Auditors: Average $68,410
Bill and Accounts Collectors: Average $38,400
Claim Adjusters; Examiners; and Investigators: Average $63,420
Cost Estimators: Average $57,990
Credit Analysts: Average $70,550
Customer Service Representative: Average $37,850
The Department of Workforce Development recommends taking the following courses:
Classroom instruction maybe offered by qualified instructors within the school district, at another school district, a Wisconsin Technical College, a University, through virtual/online learning, and/or by the employer.
This list is not exhaustive but gives an idea of the types of classes a student needs to take for success in this field. Regional Coordinators can help with finding courses that are best for the chosen pathway and will inform students on the related instruction for each pathway. DWD also recommends outside activities/clubs for an enhanced experience such as:
Get started by talking to a school counselor, Youth Apprenticeship Local Coordinator, or Regional Coordinator about how to apply and obtain career materials (plans of study). Contact DWD Youth Apprenticeship Staff for general or statewide program information.
Finance Occupational Pathway