Pre-Apprenticeships
About Pre-Apprenticeships
Pre-apprenticeships are short-term training programs that prepare participants to begin and successfully complete a union apprenticeship program. Pre-apprenticeships typically last one to three months and provide paid training on areas such as job readiness, construction site awareness and safety, basic math and geometry, tool use, and employee rights. Pre-apprenticeships are usually affiliated with multiple unionized trades.
As participants progress through their pre-apprenticeship program, they are offered support and coaching on how to select the trade that best suites them. Other supports such as child care, counseling, transportation can also be part of a pre-apprenticeship program.
In addition to all this, pre-apprenticeship programs can have significant value for underserved communities in several ways:
Skill Development:
Pre-apprenticeship programs provide participants with the opportunity to acquire valuable job-specific skills and knowledge. This training can enhance their employability and prepare them for successful, long-term careers in various trades and industries.
Access to High-Demand Industries:
Many pre-apprenticeship programs are designed to prepare individuals for careers in high-demand industries like construction. This can lead to stable employment and better income prospects for participants.
Reducing Employment Disparities:
Underserved communities often face higher unemployment rates and limited access to well-paying jobs. Pre-apprenticeship programs can help bridge this gap by providing individuals with the skills needed to access a broader range of employment opportunities.
Networking and Mentorship:
Pre-apprenticeship programs often include networking opportunities and mentorship components. Participants can connect with experienced professionals in their chosen field, which can be invaluable for career guidance and long-term success.
Earning While Learning:
In many apprenticeship programs, participants are paid for their work while they learn on the job. This can be especially beneficial for individuals in underserved communities who may need to support themselves or their families financially while acquiring new skills.
Career Advancement:
Completing a pre-apprenticeship program can serve as a stepping stone to a full apprenticeship and, eventually, a journey-level position in a trade. This can lead to higher wages and greater career stability.
Community Development:
By investing in pre-apprenticeship programs in underserved communities, NYS can stimulate economic development and reduce poverty rates. As program participants secure better employment, they contribute to the local economy and the overall well-being of their communities.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Pre-apprenticeship programs can help promote diversity and inclusion in traditionally male-dominated industries. By providing opportunities to individuals from underserved communities, these programs contribute to a more diverse and representative workforce.
Long-Term Economic Benefits:
When individuals from underserved communities participate in pre-apprenticeship programs and secure well-paying jobs, they are more likely to contribute to the tax base and reduce reliance on social welfare programs, leading to long-term economic benefits for the state.
Pre-apprenticeship programs can be a valuable tool for empowering underserved communities by providing access to skills, job opportunities, and career growth prospects. These programs can contribute to economic development, reduce employment disparities, and foster a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
To find a program near you, visit:
