Registered Apprenticeships


What is an Apprenticeship?Icons for Five Core Components of Registered Apprenticeship

The concept of an apprenticeship is a “Learn while you Earn” model.

An apprenticeship is an industry-driven model that combines on-the-job training with job-related instruction leading to increasing levels of measurable skill attainment and wages.

Apprenticeship FAQs:

Q:How important is an employer for an apprenticeship program?

A: The key to a robust apprenticeship is the employer. They are the foundation of every Registered Apprenticeship program.

Q:What type of education does an apprentice receive?

A: Apprentices receive on-the-job training from an experienced ECC faculty member or trainer for typically no less than one year.

Q: Are Apprenticeships Flexible?

A: Yes! The length of an apprenticeship varies; from 1-5 years in length. A typical ECC apprenticeship lasts 2-3 years.

Q: Are apprenticeships geared toward industries like Manufacturing?

A: No! There are more than 1,000 occupations that include health care, accounting, information technology, logistics and MORE!

Currently East Central College has apprenticeships in the following occupations but can specialize one for your company:

  • Machinist
  • Industrial Maintenance Technician
  • Welding
  • Logistics

The College has access to funds from the Missouri Registered Apprenticeship program to help companies create an apprenticeship program.

Benefits of an Apprenticeship program

An apprenticeship shows current and potential employees that a business is willing to invest in them. The investment strengthens a businesses workforce retention efforts. 91% of apprentices retain employment upon completion of the program.

  • Earnings: Average starting apprenticeship wage is $16.50 per hour. Graduates earn an average of $60,000 per year.
  • Credential Attainment: All apprentices earn a national, industry recognized credential.
  • Improves productivity and the bottom line
  • Provides opportunities for tax credits and employee benefits
  • Creates industry-driving and flexible training solutions to meet national and local needs

For every $1 spent on an apprenticeship, employers receive approximately $1.50 return on investment.

To create an apprenticeship program, contact the ECC Center for Workforce Development. Training@eastcentral.edu or 636-649-5800