Why Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships can support students intending to go to college and those who are seeking alternative pathways. Parents should consider apprenticeship programs for their high school child for several compelling reasons:
- Hands-On Learning: Apprenticeships offer valuable hands-on learning experiences that invite students to bridge classroom theory with real-world applications. This practical experience can deepen their understanding of their potential and possible career paths while building the skills crucial for continued professional success.
- Paid Work Experience: Unlike traditional internships or part-time jobs, apprenticeships usually provide students with a wage or stipend. Students earn money while gaining valuable work experience, making apprenticeships an immediate and long-term financially attractive option.
- Career Preparation: Apprenticeships provide students with a direct pathway to a career in their chosen field. Students will gain industry-specific skills, earn certifications, and establish professional connections that can jumpstart their careers during and beyond high school.
Even more benefits...
Overall, apprenticeship programs offer a unique and valuable opportunity for high school students to gain practical skills, earn money, and prepare for successful careers.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Apprenticeships pair students with experienced professionals who serve as mentors. These mentors provide guidance, support, and valuable insights into the industry and professional development, helping students navigate their career paths and develop exceptional skills.
- College Access & Alternatives: For students who may not be interested in pursuing a traditional four-year college degree, apprenticeships offer a viable pathway for continued education that is highly relevant to their career trajectory. Apprenticeships provide a combination of practical experience and classroom instruction that often includes the opportunity to earn college credits. Apprenticeships can lead to rewarding and lucrative careers without the buy-in and burden of tuition costs.
- Future Opportunities: Completing an apprenticeship can open doors to future employment opportunities, as employers highly value hands-on experience,industry-specific and general professional skills, and the dedication demonstrated by an apprenticeship commitment. Apprenticeships can also serve as a stepping stone to further education or advanced training in the future.
How to Support Your Child
Parents can play a crucial role in supporting their student's success in an apprenticeship program by taking the following steps:
- Encourage Exploration: Encourage your student to explore a range of apprenticeship opportunities across various industries that resonate with their interests and career goals. Help them research apprenticeship programs, attend information sessions, and connect with program coordinators.
- Provide Guidance: Offer guidance and support as your student navigates the application and selection process for apprenticeship programs. Help them prepare their application materials, practice for interviews, and make confident, informed decisions about their options.
- Foster Independence: Encourage your student to take ownership of their apprenticeship experience and advocate for themselves throughout the program. Emphasize the value of creating honest and open communication with their mentor and program coordinator and offer guidance on when and how to ask questions and seek support.
Don't forget to Support & Celebrate
By offering guidance, encouragement, and support, parents play a pivotal role in empowering their students to thrive in an apprenticeship program and achieve their career goals.
- Emphasize Responsibility: Help your student understand that professionalism, punctuality, and responsibility are essential to fully enjoy and excel in their apprenticeship. Encourage your student to take their apprenticeship seriously and treat it like a job, respecting deadlines, adhering to safety protocols, and demonstrating a strong work ethic. Emphasizing these practices will enhance their immediate experience and equip them with the vital communication and professional skills for their future career.
- Provide Emotional Support: Transitioning into an apprenticeship program can be challenging, and your student may face obstacles along the way. As they navigate this new experience, your support can cultivate their confidence and resilience. Listen attentively to their concerns and considerations, offer encouragement, and help them strategize solutions when faced with obstacles.
- Celebrate Achievements: Celebrate your student's accomplishments and milestones throughout their apprenticeship journey. Whether it's completing a project, mastering a new skill, or receiving positive feedback from their mentor, recognize and celebrate their successes to boost their confidence and fuel their motivation. Your enthusiasm for their progress helps reinforce the value of their efforts and the positive impact of their learning journey.
5 Reasons Students Should Consider Apprenticeships
- Earning Potential: According to the U.S. Department of Labor, individuals who complete apprenticeship programs earn an average of $300,000 more over their lifetime compared to their peers who don't participate in such programs.
- Employment Opportunities: The National Apprenticeship Act reports that 91% of apprentices who complete their programs retain employment, with an average starting wage of over $70,000 per year.
- College Credit Opportunities: Many apprenticeship programs offer college-level coursework, allowing students to earn credits toward advanced degrees while gaining hands-on experience and earning a wage.
- In-Demand Skills: Apprenticeships often focus on high-demand industries such as healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and construction, equipping students with skills that are highly sought after in today's job market.
- Career Advancement: Completing an apprenticeship can lead to accelerated career advancement opportunities, with many apprentices transitioning into higher-paying roles or even starting their own businesses.
These statistics highlight the significant benefits of enrolling in apprenticeship programs for high school students, including increased earning potential, employment opportunities, college credit, in-demand skills acquisition, and career advancement prospects.
MD BluePrint
The MD Blueprint is a comprehensive guide to help Maryland students plan for success in high school and beyond. Here's what parents should know:
Academic Planning
- Graduation Requirements: Details on courses and credits needed for graduation.
- College and Career Readiness: Standards and academic pathways for students.
Career Exploration
- Resources: Information on various career pathways, industry sectors, and job opportunities.
- Guidance: Helps students identify interests, strengths, and career goals.
College Preparation
- Admissions: Information on college requirements, standardized testing, financial aid, and scholarships.
- Application Process: Guidance to navigate college applications and make informed decisions.
Work-Based Learning
- Opportunities: Promotes internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing.
- Benefits: Highlights real-world experience and essential workplace skills.
Support Services
- Additional Assistance: Information on academic and career counseling, tutoring programs, and other support resources.
Overall, the MD Blueprint is a valuable resource for parents and students, offering guidance and support to help students succeed in high school, college, and their future careers.
