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Career Pathways
Apprenticeships
What is an Apprenticeship?
Not all careers require a degree.
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Some jobs either require or can benefit from career and technical training that can include on-the-job learning and formal learning. Several tracks in manufacturing, for example, have programs you can complete, become certified, and "earn while you learn."
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A great career resource - CareerExploreNW - prepared great information about apprenticeships:
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"An apprenticeship is the original 4-year degree and the oldest method of training used to learn a skilled trade. You get to earn while you learn, gaining valuable experience in your chosen occupation. Generally, a 3-5 year program with job site and classroom time. In most apprenticeships, you can expect to gain ninety percent of your education working on the job. You will learn the rest in a classroom and shop from skilled instructors. These classes sometimes earn college credit as well, depending on the organization. Upon graduation, apprentices continue their careers completely debt free."
SOURCE: ApprenticeshipUSA - US Department of Labor - www.apprenticeship.gov/
Pre-Apprenticeships /
Youth Apprenticeships
You don't have to wait until you graduate to begin an apprenticeship. Many programs can begin while you are in high school. Pre-apprenticeships allow you to begin working in your desired field, giving you the knowledge and skills you need to get a head start - often right after graduation.
Apprenticeship Preparation Programs
Learn about programs that can help you prepare for apprenticeships.
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Examples:​
Related Resources
The following are additional resources that may provide you with more information to help you learn about available apprenticeships and training you need for a career in your desired field.
Industry
Program
Description
Comments
MANUFACTURING
Resources provided by WA State Dept of Labor and Industries for the latest policies and opportunities.
Sponsored by the WA State Dept. of Labor & Industries
MANUFACTURING
A "one-stop shop" to connect career seekers, employers, and education partners with apprenticeship resources.
Sponsored by the US Dept. of Labor
MANUFACTURING
Click here to find an apprenticeship program within the State of Washington.
Sponsored by the US Dept. of Labor
MANUFACTURING
Get the information you need about available apprenticeship opportunities in several career fields.
Sponsored by Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board
MANUFACTURING
Get information on programs and how to find them throughout Washington.
Sponsored by Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board
CONSTRUCTION
Spokane Community College partners with 18 apprenticeship programs throughout Washington. Learn more about how to prepare for them.
Sponsored by Spokane Community College
GENERAL INFO
Spokane Workforce Council offers several resources for local apprenticeships and information to begin.
Sponsored by Spokane Workforce Council
Careers that Use Apprenticeships
Several industries rely on apprenticeships to train their workforce for high-paying technical careers. For example, careers in aerospace, automotive, machining, and manufacturing industries can include several positions, such as those identified in the following resources.
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(More job summary information can be found here.)
Industry
Position
Training Available
Info Source
MACHINING
(Jobs apply to many industries)
O-NET (Job Overview)
Career One Stop (Video)
MANUFACTURING
(Jobs apply to many industries)
MANUFACTURING
(Jobs apply to many industries)
Frequently Asked Questions
CareerExploreNW prepared the following FAQs about apprenticeships. You can find these and much more about apprenticeships on their website. Visit it now for additional information on how to begin your apprenticeship journey.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
(For details, go to the CareerExploreNW website here)
What is the benefit of beginning with a pre-apprenticeship program?
Can I get a job directly after completing a pre-apprenticeship program?
Do I have to attend class if I become an apprentice?
What do I get when I complete an apprenticeship?
Who is eligible to apply for an apprenticeship program?