A pre-apprenticeship program is designed to prepare an individual to enter a Registered Apprenticeship Program(RAP), an On the Job Training (OJT) program, or gain employment. These are the key elements you should expect to find in a quality pre-apprenticeship program.
Industry-Based Training
The curriculum used in the pre-apprenticeship should be current and in line with industry standards. Often it will have been approved by one or more RAP partners. The curriculum will include numerous soft skills. They will give an overview of the industry and training in job readiness, communication, and basic math. These skills will ensure the participant is successful whether the next steps be employment, apprenticeship, or an On the Job Training program.
Hands-On Training
A pre-apprenticeship will have hands-on training. You will have an opportunity to do some of the same things you would do on the job. These will be based on the industry you have chosen. They are meant to simulate the environment you would typically be working. This hands-on training is important for learning proper job safety habits. The hands-on training will allow you to decide if this is something you enjoy doing and would like to make a career.
Increased Diversity
Pre-apprenticeship programs are often geared towards underrepresented populations such as women and people of color.
Supportive Services
Pre-apprenticeships will usually offer supportive services such as job placement assistance, and helping navigate services like funding, childcare, and transportation. They will help overcome any barriers a participant is facing that could prevent them from being successful in the program.
Partners
You should expect a good pre-apprenticeship program to have a network of partners. These partners could be Registered Apprenticeship Programs, OJT programs, employers, unions, etc. They will have an agreement to consider successful graduates from the pre-apprenticeship for their open opportunities.
You should expect to receive a solid foundation in the industry you have chosen when you attend a pre-apprenticeship program. They are meant to give you an overview of what you can expect to do on a day-to-day basis when working in that industry and provide you with a supportive network to help you succeed.
Additional Resources
https://www.apprenticeship.gov/employers/explore-pre-apprenticeship
