Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP) are an employer-driven workforce strategy that includes structured training, mentorship, and hands-on learning to grow and develop employee talent. For the Registered Apprentice (RA), these programs offer on-the-job training with applicable classroom education. and on-the-job learning as an individual progresses through the program. Registered Apprenticeship is a structured career pathway with built-in advancement potential. It’s time to get started!
Find an Apprenticeship Program Near You!
Click here or on the image of the map to open a map that will allow you to search for Registered Apprenticeship Programs throughout Arkansas. This map is designed to aid in searching for apprenticeship programs that meet your requirements.
You can use the filter option (upper right) to find a program in a specific occupation or industry sector or you can use the search for programs in specific areas by zip code, city, or county. When you click on an icon, a table will open with information about that specific program, as well as how to contact the company or organization for more information. If there is more than one program in that area the arrow option will allow you to access additional information.
How can I find a Registered Apprenticeship Program?
- Search for an apprenticeship in your area using the map above
- Talk to your high school guidance counselor
- Contact a company you are interested in and inquire about apprenticeship opportunities
- Contact your local workforce development center
- Learn how to write a resume
- Search for jobs on Arkansas JobLink
- Check out Career Expos and Job Fairs around the state
- Check out what is available in wrap-around services to help get you started
- Go to the US Department of Labor’s website and search for an apprenticeship
- Go to Career OneStop, sponsored by the US Department of Labor, for a variety of services
Download the “Catalog of Industry Recognized Credentials” to find out what credentials are available in your area of interest. These credentials are proof of competency and capability in a given field and also demonstrate to the community and employers that the student is knowledgeable, properly trained, and equipped to carry out his or her duties.
What’s in it for me?
There are many benefits of apprenticeship. The three most common are: earning while you learn, no college or experience is necessary, and learning a professional skill that can set you on the path to successful career. Here are some additional benefits: get a career, earn while you learn, acquire relevant skills, get experience, mentorship, develop professional skills, earn industry certifications, gain independence and respect, progressive pay scale and avoid massive college debt.
What are my choices?
Apprenticeship has been around for several millennia. It has been a great option for career preparation for both those just starting out in life and for individuals looking for a career change or to learn new skills. Traditionally in America, apprenticeship has been associated with the construction trades like plumbing, electrical, or carpentry. However, in today’s competitive and technologically evolving work culture, Registered Apprenticeship Programs have moved beyond trades into sectors such as healthcare, information technology, energy, advanced manufacturing, transportation, and service industries. Nearly all industry sectors can benefit from Registered Apprenticeship Programs. Here are the main industry sectors that lend themselves to Registered Apprenticeship Programs, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Success Stories…
These people have different life goals and very different interests, but each has found the first step in their career is a Registered Apprenticeship. Whether it is a stepping stone to further education or getting the skills they need for their dream job, apprenticeship is the answer.
“Apprenticeship training has given me a 2nd chance at life! I made some poor choices when I was younger, paid my debt to society, and then found an employer who was willing to take a chance on me. They enrolled me in an apprenticeship program and four years later I’ve graduated and just passed my exam to be a journeyman plumber. Apprenticeship can help change your life.”
James Wilson, Action, Inc.
“Apprenticeship training is the best of both worlds—I get to earn a living while gaining the necessary skills to have a successful career in the construction industry! No student loans; not college debt; I get to EARN while I LEARN!”
Dustin George, Fureigh Electric
“I’m from West Africa originally. … ACDS came to my school, at UCA, and told us about the data analytics apprenticeship program. I signed up, and they connected me with DXC, a really big company. … We graduated from the apprenticeship classes in April, and now I’m a C/Unix Developer for DXC. I have the career I wanted.”
Abdoul, C/Unix Developer with DXC Technology
