Apprenticeships

Industries that typically offer apprenticeship programs include:

• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Health care
• Information technology
• Transportation
• Energy

Every apprenticeship program has a sponsor. Apprentice program sponsors can be a person, association, committee, or organization.

Examples include:

• Employers (a single business or a consortium of businesses)
• Union and non-union workplaces
• Workforce intermediaries (i.e., labor organizations)
• Community colleges
• Community-based organizations

Application Requirements: Application requirements differ by program. Applicants must be at least 16 years old, but most apprenticeship programs require applicants to be 18 years old or older. 

Duration: The length of an apprenticeship varies by occupation and program, typically ranging from one to six years. 

Credentials: Upon completion of the program, the U.S. Department of Labor awards apprentices with national, industry-recognized credentials. 

For more information on specific apprenticeship programs, please review the Apprenticeship Toolkit.

If an apprenticeship is an option that interests you, consider taking these next steps:

1. Explore apprenticeships: Meet with your counselor, teachers, family members and other advisors to decide if an apprenticeship is right for you.
2. Find an apprenticeship: Search for opportunities using the Apprenticeship Finder or the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) website. Contact the employer or the program sponsor for more information.
3. Submit an application: Apply for an apprenticeship directly with the employer or program sponsor. Ask your school counselor and use other CPS career planning resources for help filling out applications, writing a resume and cover letter, and preparing for interviews.