Who Is Youth Apprenticeship For?

The Youth Apprenticeship program is for current Juniors and Seniors! YA students have many different goals and future plans because Youth Apprenticeship is an options multiplier. Employers and colleges recognize the YA program as a way for students to stretch themselves beyond the classroom to gain skills, knowledge, and experience that will help them be successful in their chosen industry. YA can be a powerful enhancement to your education or a fast-track to a career, or both. YA students have secured competitive internships, won highly competitive scholarships, received fully-paid Registered Apprenticeship opportunities, and many full-time employment offers due to their YA experiences!

Is There A GPA Requirement For YA?

No! There is no specific GPA requirement to apply for the Youth Apprenticeship program. However, students must be on track for graduation. Students with many different GPAs are successful in the YA program. What is critical to your success in the program is your reliability and willingness to learn. 

Do Students Earn Certifications Through YA?

Yes! Every YA student earns an Occupational Skills Certification and Employability Skills Certification upon successful completion. This certification verifies that they have gained the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to be successful in their chosen industry.

Who Operates the Program? 

The Department of Workforce Development authorizes the Racine Area Manufacturers and Commerce (RAMAC) to operate the program for Racine Unified School District.  Jeff Bergman, the Youth Apprenticeship/Workplace Learning Coordinator at RAMAC works with RUSD's Workplace Learning Coordinators (Ms. Erickson is Horlick's WLC) to ensure they all have up-to-date information to provide to businesses and students. 

How Can Students Be In The Youth Apprenticeship Program?

Students must fill out the online YA interest Survey & Application located on the Home page.

If a student currently has a job that they like and it is connected to their pathway, come see Ms. Erickson in the Engagement Office (located next to the Library) to see if they qualify for the YA program! Students may also email or text Ms. Erickson - marna.erickson@rusd.org or 262-456-2660.

How Are Students Hired?

Students are hired based on their YA application, resume and an interview. All employment decisions are made by our YA employers. 

How Much Are Students Paid?

Wages are determined by the YA employer, so student wages vary. 

My Parent/Relative/Friend Owns A Company. Can I Do A YA There?

Yes, you can! Please reach out to Ms. Erickson to discuss how to arrange this.

Do Students Earn High School Credit?

Yes! All Youth Apprentices will earn up to 2.5 credits for each school year (Junior year and/or Senior year) by being enrolled in a Youth Apprenticeship Program and working 450 hours. 

Do Students Earn A Graduation Cord For YA?

Yes! Students who complete a Youth Apprenticeship program receive a graduation cord in the colors of green and orange, to signify excellence in career and technical education. YA students wear their cords with pride on graduation day! 

What Guides Student Learning?

Student learning is guided by industry-specific skill checklists provided by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Each YA program has a unique Skills Standards Checklist, which are developed by business and industry leaders.

If A Student Is In Sports/Clubs/Extra Curriculars, Can They Do YA?

Yes! Nearly all Youth Apprentices are able to participate in activities outside of school such as sports and clubs while still being a part of the YA program! However, some students may need to have release time from school in order to work or on the weekends to make up for their hours missed. 

When Do Students Work?

Work schedules vary by student and are based on a student's school schedule and employer needs. Students communicate with their employers to set a schedule that works best for everyone!

What If A Student Doesn't Have Early Release To Go To Work?

That's totally okay! The Youth Apprenticeship Program allows students to work during or outside of school. The only requirement is to fulfill 450 hours of work throughout the year. Many students also work during the summer to get extra hours for their apprenticeship! Just be sure if applying for a job from this website that it doesn't require release time.