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Washtenaw Community College Apprenticeship Programs

December 8, 2021 Talent
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Apprenticeships are a great way for employers to fill their talent needs with qualified employees with the advanced skills and knowledge to meet employers’ unique needs.

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships allow employers to gain educated and knowledgeable employees by combining accredited course work with on-the-job training, and employees earn a salary while they learn.

Benefits of an Apprenticeship

For the Employer:

  • Creates a stable and reliable pipeline of qualified workers.
  • Increases employee loyalty and retention.
  • Provides training that meets industry standards and unique needs of their organization.
  • Fosters a safer workplace due to safety training.
  • Transfers important knowledge from mentor to apprentice through on-the-job training.

For the Student:

  • Earn a wage and receive pay increases as skills develop.
  • Employer pays college education, for many programs.
  • Gain skills in a field through on-the-job training and classroom learning from industry experts.
  • Receive support and resources to succeed in school and at work
  • Earn an academic and nationally recognized credential

Who can be an apprentice?

  • High school students or recent graduates.
  • Career changers who need training in another industry.
  • Current workers looking to advance in their jobs.

What are the available apprenticeship programs at WCC?

  • Mechatronics
  • Cybersecurity
  • Automotive Services Technician
  • Automotive Test Technician
  • Powertrain Development Technician
  • Ironworkers Pre-Apprenticeship
  • Welding & Fabrication Principles
  • Healthcare
  • Information Technology
  • Transportation
  • Customizable programs available

Facts about WCC apprenticeships?

  • WCC has been recognized by the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) with a special status of Leader – Leaders of Excellence in Apprenticeship, Development, Education, and Research.
  • WCC has created more than 5,000 online courses for United Association (UA) instructors across the country, with 25,000 apprentices enrolled in these courses.
  • Three national trade unions – United Association, Ironworkers and Plasterers and Masons – hold their train-the-trainer programs at WCC each year.

Where Can I Learn More?

Washtenaw Community College has a wealth of resources for companies and students interested in apprenticeships. You can also learn more on the MI Apprenticeship website.