Why Apprenticeship – Educators
Apprenticeship Offers the Skills and Degree Needed for In-Demand Careers
How do I guide all of my students to a successful career path after graduation?
Helping high school students prepare for life after graduation is a big responsibility. You want to help each student pursue a path that fits their skills and interests and sets them up for success, yet you know a 4-year college experience isn’t for everyone.
A nationally recognized youth apprenticeship program, which is offered in Rockingham County, provides another pathway to promising, in-demand careers. The Rockingham Apprenticeship and Technical Opportunities Program (RockATOP) is built on a successful model, which has been used by communities throughout the United States and Europe. Local forward-thinking companies have adopted apprenticeship as a vital way to fill valued, skilled positions and train the next generation of leaders.
Apprenticeship Offers Career and College with No Debt
With an apprenticeship students will:
- Get paid to learn real-world skills
- Earn an associate’s degree with no debt
- May have the option to continue studies to earn a bachelor’s degree
- Become ready for career advancement
- Gain experience in an advanced field of their choice
Early Career Start Equals Financial Stability
High school students are able to start the 4-5 year apprenticeship program the summer after their junior or senior year. Apprenticeships let students get a jump start on learning career skills and earning money. Students will:
- Finish high school classes while also starting college classes at no cost
- Earn pay while learning on the job and for time attending college classes
- Learn skills that are in high demand and that will prepare them for career advancement
What Types of Students are the Best Match?
Bright, motivated students that thrive in a hands-on learning environment are typically a good fit for an apprenticeship program. Students should also be responsible, organized, and willing to learn both technical skills and broader workplace skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of fields, from information technology, teacher assistant, office administration, robotics, electrical/electronics, mechanics, lean manufacturing, and advanced manufacturing.
How to Help Students Explore Apprenticeship
If you have a student that you think would be a good match for the Rockingham Apprenticeship and Technical Opportunities Program, you can help them explore this growing career pathway. Learn how students can apply.