"My experience in this two-year program greatly affected my career plans. While in the program, I earned eight advanced standing credits at UW Stout." - Ed Simson
The standard Youth Apprenticeship model is a two-year program requiring a minimum of 900 hours of paid work experience and four semesters of related classroom instruction based on industry-developed skill standards. A Certificate of Occupational Proficiency is issued by the Governor's Work-Based Learning Board to students who successfully complete the program. In addition, youth apprentices may choose to enroll in a Level One program where they must complete a minimum of 450 hours of paid work-based learning while they are in the program. Students successfully completing a Level One program will receive a Certificate of Recognition.
Student Benefits
Education is more relevant when students combine learning and thinking in the classroom with application of knowledge and skills in the workplace. Students in youth apprenticeship program will:
See first hand the connection between education and work
Strengthen their academic skills
Explore a particular career area
Earn wages while learning from skilled professionals
Earn a state-recognized certificate upon completion
Earn advanced standing credits in a technical college and
Increase their career options and future employability
Student Responsibilities
To participate in a youth apprenticeship program, a student must:
Meet eligibility requirements for the program
Complete Youth Apprenticeship Application available online or from a guidance counselor
Be interviewed and hired by a local employer
Sign an Education/Training agreement
Maintain an academic standing in school
Maintain good work ethic and attendance on the job
Participate in regular progress reviews
Meet academic requirements for high school graduation and
Master the competencies in youth apprenticeship curriculum
Student Eligibility
Students apply for youth apprenticeship during their sophomore or junior year. Basic eligibility requirements include:
Achievement of junior standing as determined by the high school
Satisfactory performance in courses related to youth apprenticeship area chosen
Prior participation in career planning activities which allow the student to make an informed career choice
Parent Responsibilities
Parental support is important to a student's success in the youth apprenticeship program. This is a nontraditional education experience which may require changes in daily or weekly schedules, special transportation needs, and longer days for the student. Parents will be asked to sign an Education/Training Agreement which details all parties' responsibilities, ensure that the student has transportation to and from their job and participate in regular progress reviews with the student and mentor.
