Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a proven training program that is used as a talent development strategy for recruiting, training and retaining World-Class talent and has been used in industry for decades. Apprenticeships are a work-based learning model where apprentices have supervised on-the-job training, along with job-related education, all while working full-time and earning a wage that increases during the progression of the program. Apprenticeships are registered and validated by the U.S. Department of Labor.

What are the Benefits for Employers?
Apprenticeship programs allow employers to recruit, train and retain workers to help build their workforce.  In addition to highly-skilled employees, employers also benefit from:

1. Increased productivity and worker versatility,
2. Reduced turnover costs,
3. A safer workplace, and
4. Enhanced employee retention.

Typically, apprentices remain loyal to a business because they recognize the fact that the company has invested time and energy to help them achieve their career goals. Most companies see a 94% retention rate after an apprentice completes its program. Apprenticeships also have a great "Return on Investment" or ROI for companies with programs.  It is estimated a company's ROI is $1.46 for every $1 invested. 

What Support is Available?
The Northwest TN Workforce Board and a Regional Apprenticeship Director with Apprenticeship TN are available to assist employers and sponsors with:

1. Designing and implementing a program that benefits everyone involved.   
2. Updating existing programs.
3. Identifying curriculum and training providers.
4. Recruiting new talent, including developing pre-apprenticeship programs.
5. Setting apprentice pay scales.
6. Working with the U.S. Department of Labor on registration and reporting.

Additionally, financial assistance is available for on-the-job learning through On-the-Job Training (OJT) grants which can reimburse up to 50% of new hire’s wages during a specified training period, typically up to 320 hours. Scholarships of up to $4,000 per year for up to two years are also available to assist with the job-related education and classroom training. 

Financial assistance may also be available for pre-apprenticeship programs for young adults. A pre-apprenticeship program is coursework or training designed to prepare individuals to enter and succeed in a registered apprenticeship program. Once the participant completes the pre-apprenticeship program, he or she typically has the opportunity to interview for a registered apprenticeship program. A pre-apprenticeship program, by definition, has a documented partnership with at least one Registered Apprenticeship program.

For more information or general inquiries, please contact the Business Services Representative for your county:

Benton, Carroll, Gibson, Henry, and Weakley Counties
Maleia Evans, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., (731) 325-5836

Crockett, Dyer, Lake, and Obion Counties
Lana Wood, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., (731) 882-1162

Click on the image below for the lastest information on Apprenticeships in Tennessee!