Registered Pre-Apprenticeships are short-term programs that teach basic job readiness and technical skills through a mix of classroom and work-based learning in industries that link to registered apprenticeship opportunities in Ohio. These programs are registered through ApprenticeOhio and are designed to provide career connected learning experiences for high school students.
High school pre-apprenticeship programs are designed to equip students with the foundational skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to transition smoothly into registered apprenticeships or other career pathways. These programs blend academic instruction with real-world learning and career exploration, ensuring students are both college- and career-ready. The key elements outlined here represent the essential components that make pre-apprenticeships effective, equitable, and aligned with industry needs.
Includes coursework in relevant subjects and industry-specific knowledge. These courses are part of a student’s in-school course work and can be specific to industry, general work-readiness, or a combination. For example, students might take business or accounting classes, or a career readiness course.
Pre-Apprenticeship Programs provide students with direct exposure to potential careers within their chosen industry. This can be achieved through activities such as job shadowing, guest speakers from various professions, and project-based learning experiences.
Work-Based Learning provides students with hands-on or simulated experiences in collaboration with businesses, community-based organizations, or within the school. These short-term experiences allow students to engage with industry professionals and complete authentic work. Typically, students participate in approximately 40 hours of work-based learning.
Pre-Apprenticeship Programs should be an on-ramp to what related technical instruction and/or on-the-job training would take place in an apprenticeship within the same sector. This alignment is achieved through a combination of coursework and/or work-based learning activities.
Programs should offer direct or indirect support services to help students prepare for the world of work.
Pre-Apprenticeship Programs end with participants receiving a 12-point Industry Recognized Credential towards graduation, as well as the opportunity to earn other Industry Recognized Credentials within their career path.
Program completion can lead to direct entry into a Registered Apprenticeship, with credit given towards prior learning in some programs.
