Apprenticeships
A Registered Apprenticeship is a paid job with a mentor, classroom training and wage increases as you build skills, ending with a nationally recognized credential. You apply directly to the employer or program sponsor.
You'll need
- A rough idea of fields you'd like to try
- A short resume or list of work experience
Do it like this
- Know what you're getting: paid work from day one, on-the-job learning plus related classroom training, progressive wage increases and a portable credential (Apprenticeship.gov).
- Search openings with the Apprenticeship Job Finder by field and location.
- Apply directly with the employer or program sponsor, and ask them your questions about the specific opportunity (Apprenticeship.gov).
- Want help? An American Job Center can help you find and apply for an apprenticeship (Apprenticeship.gov).
- Compare the pay you'd earn after finishing with the field's typical pay in the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Watch out. Check that a program is a Registered Apprenticeship if a recognized credential matters to you. Ask the sponsor directly.
If it doesn't work
- If there are no openings near you right now, set a reminder to search again monthly. Programs post on their own schedules.
- If you're turned down, ask what would make you a stronger applicant next time.
- If you're unsure which field fits, an American Job Center can help you explore options (Apprenticeship.gov).
Good to know
Earn while you learn
Apprentices earn a wage while training, with a guaranteed increase as skills grow (Apprenticeship.gov).
Not just construction
Use the job finder to see the range of fields in your area (Apprenticeship.gov).
Research pay first
CareerOneStop's Salary Finder shows typical wages by job and location.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Labor, Apprenticeship.gov Become an apprentice
- U.S. Department of Labor, Apprenticeship.gov Apprenticeship Job Finder
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook
- CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor Salary Finder
Lesson W6.2 · Last checked October 2, 2026 against the sources listed. See a mistake?
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