Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship (YA) (http://dwd.wisconsin.gov/youthapprenticeship/) is a rigorous statewide elective program for high school juniors and seniors that combines academic and technical classroom instruction with mentored on-the-job training. It is an opportunity for students to experience a career while still in high school. This program is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD).
How It Works
Students attend their home high school and continue taking courses that are required for graduation. Students also take related technical course work, which follows industry standards and is delivered either at their high school, the technical college or though industry trainers.
The student employed in a paid position for 10-20 hours per week during the school year and are encouraged to work during the summer depending on the needs of the business. The employer pays the student, provides workmen’s compensation, training according to the competency checklist and mentoring.
Apprentice’s who master the competencies and graduate from high school receive a state issued skills certificate from DWD. Depending upon the program and the high school, the student may be eligible for technical college credit.
Benefits To Students
- Build a resume for career portfolio and/or college/scholarship applications
- Receive paid on-the-job training
- Develop skill set in their career field
- Complete advanced coursework in a specific career
- Earn credit for prior learning at the technical college or university
- Earn a recognized skills certificate of occupational proficiency from the State of Wisconsin
- Develop a network of contacts in your career field