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Apprenticeship Programs

Earn while you learn with registered apprenticeships. No tuition, no student debt -- get paid from day one while training for a skilled career.

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Quick Answer

A registered apprenticeship is a job where you earn a wage from day one while receiving on-the-job training and classroom instruction. You pay no tuition -- your employer pays for your training. Apprenticeships typically last 1-5 years depending on the trade and lead to a nationally recognized credential. Apprentices earn progressive wage increases as they gain skills, starting around $15-$20/hour and reaching journeyman wages of $25-$45+/hour upon completion.

Apprenticeships are available in construction (electrical, plumbing, carpentry, ironwork), manufacturing, IT and cybersecurity, healthcare, and many other industries. You can search for open apprenticeship positions at apprenticeship.gov.

Apprenticeships are one of the best options for people with criminal records. Many construction unions and contractors actively recruit people with records. The Department of Labor specifically supports apprenticeship access for justice-involved individuals through its Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) program. If you are a veteran, the Helmets to Hardhats program connects you to construction apprenticeships at no cost.

Cost

No tuition -- you earn a wage from day one

Free options: Registered apprenticeships are free for the apprentice. Your employer pays for training, tools, and instruction. You receive a paycheck while learning.

Some pre-apprenticeship programs may have costs, but many are free (especially those targeting people with barriers to employment). Your local American Job Center can help you find free pre-apprenticeship programs.

Programs and Options

Construction Apprenticeships (IBEW, UA, Carpenters)

Registered Apprenticeship

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Cost: No tuition -- earn $15-$22/hour starting, rising to $30-$50+/hourDuration: 3-5 years

People willing to commit to multi-year training for high long-term earnings and benefits

  • -Earn a wage from day one with progressive raises
  • -Classroom instruction provided at no cost
  • -Nationally recognized journeyman credential upon completion
  • -Strong union benefits (health insurance, pension, annuity)
  • -Many unions actively recruit people with criminal records
  • -Construction trades include electrical, plumbing, pipefitting, carpentry, ironwork, sheet metal, and more

Construction union apprenticeships are among the most established and well-paying. IBEW (electrical), UA (plumbing/pipefitting), and UBC (carpenters) all offer registered apprenticeships. Starting wages are typically $15-$22/hour with regular increases. Journeyman electricians and plumbers earn $30-$50+/hour plus benefits. Many construction unions have a history of working with justice-involved individuals.

IT and Cybersecurity Apprenticeships

Registered Apprenticeship

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Cost: No tuition -- earn $20-$30/hour startingDuration: 1-2 years

People interested in technology careers without a four-year degree

  • -Fastest-growing apprenticeship sector -- 29% growth in 4 years
  • -Over 64,800 registered apprentices in tech occupations
  • -Companies like IBM, Amazon, Accenture, and Google offer tech apprenticeships
  • -Can lead to cybersecurity, software development, data analytics, and IT support careers
  • -Entry-level cybersecurity positions pay $75,000-$110,000/year
  • -No prior tech experience required for most programs

Tech apprenticeships are booming. Major companies including IBM, Amazon, Accenture, and Google run registered apprenticeship programs in cybersecurity, software development, data analytics, cloud computing, and IT support. These programs provide both on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Completers earn in-demand certifications and often receive full-time job offers. Background check policies vary by company.

Healthcare Apprenticeships

Registered Apprenticeship

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Cost: No tuition -- earn while trainingDuration: 1-3 years

People interested in healthcare who want to avoid student debt

  • -Growing number of healthcare apprenticeships available
  • -Roles include pharmacy technician, medical assistant, dental assistant, surgical technologist
  • -Hospitals and healthcare systems sponsor apprenticeships
  • -Pathway to further healthcare education and advancement
  • -Strong job security in a growing industry

Healthcare apprenticeships are expanding rapidly. Hospitals and healthcare systems are using apprenticeships to address staffing shortages. Roles include pharmacy technician, medical assistant, dental assistant, and more. Note that healthcare positions typically require background checks, and some convictions may affect licensure. Check with your state's healthcare licensing board before enrolling.

Helmets to Hardhats (Veterans)

Veteran-Specific Apprenticeship Pathway

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Cost: Free -- plus GI Bill benefits can supplement incomeDuration: 3-5 years (varies by trade)

Military veterans looking to transition to well-paying construction careers

  • -Connects military veterans to construction apprenticeships
  • -No prior construction experience needed
  • -Over 50,000 successful transitions since inception
  • -GI Bill benefits supplement apprenticeship wages
  • -All major construction trades represented
  • -Nationwide program with connections in every state

Helmets to Hardhats is a national nonprofit that connects National Guard, Reserve, retired, and transitioning active-duty military service members with construction apprenticeships. The program is connected to all major building trades unions. No prior construction experience is needed -- trade organizations provide 3-5 year earn-while-you-learn apprenticeship training at no cost. Veterans can also use GI Bill benefits to supplement their apprenticeship wages.

Checkr Catalyst Program (People with Records)

Apprenticeship / On-the-Job Training

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Cost: Free -- earn while trainingDuration: 12 months

People with criminal records who want structured support entering the workforce

  • -Specifically designed for workers with criminal records
  • -On-the-job training with participating employers
  • -12-month mentorship program
  • -Launched in 2025 by background check company Checkr
  • -Multiple industries and employers participating

Checkr, a background check technology company, launched the Catalyst apprenticeship program specifically to support hiring and training for workers with criminal records. The program provides 12 months of on-the-job training, mentorship, and support. Employers participate in cohorts and commit to fair-chance hiring practices. This is a newer program -- check the Checkr website for current availability and participating employers.

What Is a Registered Apprenticeship?

A Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) is a training program that has been validated by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Unlike trade school where you pay tuition, an apprenticeship is a real job where you earn a wage from day one. Your employer provides on-the-job training with a mentor, classroom instruction (usually at a training center or community college), progressive wage increases as you gain skills, and a nationally recognized credential upon completion. Registered apprenticeships are different from informal training or internships -- the credential you earn is portable and recognized across the country.

How to Find and Apply for Apprenticeships

Search the Apprenticeship Job Finder at apprenticeship.gov to find open positions near you. You can also contact your local American Job Center (careeronestop.org or call 1-877-872-5627) for help finding apprenticeships. For construction trades, contact your local union hall directly -- IBEW (electrical), UA (plumbing/pipefitting), UBC (carpenters), and other trade unions accept applications on a regular schedule. Many programs have application windows, so ask about the next open enrollment period. The application process varies by program but may include an aptitude test, interview, and sometimes a physical fitness assessment for construction trades.

Apprenticeships for People with Criminal Records

Apprenticeships are one of the most accessible career pathways for people with records. The Department of Labor actively supports apprenticeship access for justice-involved individuals through its Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) program and its Career Seekers with Barriers to Employment resources at apprenticeship.gov. Many construction unions and contractors have a long history of providing second chances. Pre-apprenticeship programs, which prepare you for the apprenticeship application process, are often specifically designed for people facing barriers to employment. Your local American Job Center can connect you to pre-apprenticeship programs and REO-funded opportunities in your area. Be honest about your record during the application process -- many programs evaluate criminal history on a case-by-case basis and consider the nature, severity, and age of the offense.

Pre-Apprenticeship Programs

Pre-apprenticeship programs are shorter training programs (typically 4-12 weeks) that prepare you for entry into a registered apprenticeship. They often include basic skills training, safety certifications (OSHA 10, first aid/CPR), trade-specific introduction, math and reading skills, resume and interview preparation, and support services. Many pre-apprenticeship programs are free and specifically target people with barriers to employment, including those with criminal records. Organizations like YouthBuild, Jails to Jobs, and local workforce development boards operate pre-apprenticeship programs. Completing a pre-apprenticeship gives you a significant advantage when applying for a registered apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship Pay and Benefits

Apprentices earn a wage from the first day of work. Starting wages vary by trade and location but typically range from $15-$25/hour. Wages increase on a regular schedule (usually every 6-12 months) as you complete training milestones. By the time you complete a construction apprenticeship, you are typically earning journeyman wages of $25-$50+/hour. In addition to wages, many apprenticeships include health insurance, retirement benefits (pension and/or 401k), paid time off, and tool allowances. Union apprenticeships typically offer the best benefit packages. Veterans can use their GI Bill benefits to supplement apprenticeship wages -- the VA pays a monthly stipend on top of your apprenticeship wages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an apprenticeship with a felony?
Yes, many apprenticeship programs accept applicants with criminal records. Construction trades are especially accessible. The Department of Labor actively supports apprenticeship access for justice-involved individuals. Each program evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis, considering the type of offense, how long ago it occurred, and evidence of rehabilitation. Be honest about your record during the application process. Pre-apprenticeship programs can help you strengthen your application.
How much do apprentices get paid?
Apprentice pay varies by trade and location. Starting wages typically range from $15-$25/hour. Wages increase regularly (every 6-12 months) as you complete training milestones. By completion, construction apprentices typically earn $25-$50+/hour (journeyman rate). IT apprentices start around $20-$30/hour with potential for much higher earnings after completion. Union apprenticeships also include health insurance, pension, and other benefits.
How long does an apprenticeship last?
Construction apprenticeships typically last 3-5 years (8,000-10,000 hours of on-the-job training). IT and tech apprenticeships are shorter, usually 1-2 years. Healthcare apprenticeships vary from 1-3 years. The length depends on the occupation and the specific program. During this time, you are working full-time and earning a wage -- it is not like school where you are paying to attend.
Do I need experience to start an apprenticeship?
No. The whole point of an apprenticeship is to learn on the job. Most programs require no prior experience. You typically need a high school diploma or GED, a valid ID, and the ability to perform the physical requirements of the job. Some programs require basic math skills or a minimum age (usually 18). Pre-apprenticeship programs can help you prepare if you need to brush up on basics.
What is the difference between an apprenticeship and trade school?
The biggest difference is cost and structure. In an apprenticeship, you earn a wage and your employer pays for your training -- you have no tuition. In trade school, you pay tuition (though financial aid can help) and attend classes. Apprenticeships are longer (1-5 years) but you are earning money the entire time. Trade school is shorter (6-12 months for certificates) but costs $5,000-$15,000. Apprenticeships lead to a nationally recognized credential that is highly valued by employers.
Can veterans use GI Bill benefits for apprenticeships?
Yes. Veterans can use GI Bill benefits to supplement their apprenticeship wages. The VA pays a monthly stipend on top of your apprenticeship paycheck. The Helmets to Hardhats program specifically connects veterans to construction apprenticeships nationwide. Contact your local VA office or visit helmetstohardhats.org to learn more.
How do I find apprenticeships near me?
Use the Apprenticeship Job Finder at apprenticeship.gov to search for open positions. You can also contact your local American Job Center (call 1-877-872-5627), contact local union halls directly (IBEW for electrical, UA for plumbing, etc.), or search on job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn for 'apprenticeship' positions in your area.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal or professional advice. Program availability, costs, and eligibility may vary by location and change over time. Contact programs directly for the most current information. For help finding education and training programs in your area, call 211 (free nationwide helpline) or visit your local American Job Center.

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