Apprenticeships

Apprenticeship programs provide hands-on training to an employee while gaining necessary competency. They offer skills in a particular occupation, help connect to a career pathway, and combine on-the-job training with appropriate instruction. It is commonly referred to as an “Earn and Learn” model. Gradually the apprentice acquires new proficiencies, builds workplace skills, and reaches set milestones. Some of the benefits include earning college credit while earning an income, and students graduating with no college debt! For more information, visit College of DuPage's Project Hire-Ed Apprenticeship Program webpage.

North America’s Building Trades Unions is a labor organization representing more than 3 million skilled craft professionals in the United States and Canada. NABTU is composed of fourteen national and international unions and over 330 provincial, state and local building and construction trades councils.

• Students can read about the different trades in their apprenticeship brochure to find the best fit. Since admission is competitive, students should consider more than one trade.

• Students can use NABTU’s training center map to find nearby centers. Call to learn when and how to apply for apprenticeships. Students can also use NABTU's directory to contact their local Building Trades Council for more info.

ICATT offers other “Earn and Learn” models in partnership with community colleges in the greater Chicagoland area. For more information, visit the ICATT Apprenticeship Program webpage.

• Job Corps: Free Residential Education AND Job Training Program

• Illinois High School 2 Career: In-demand Career Opportunities in Illinois

• How to Get Into a Trade (Indeed.com)

• Technology Center of DuPage (TCD): Partnership with D203 to provide hands-on experience to high school students.