Apprenticeship FAQ

• Apprenticeship Enrollment Form

A registered apprenticeship program combines on-the-job experience and training with classroom learning. The MCC apprenticeship program is such a program developed in partnership with key employers throughout our area. Eligible employees have the opportunity to build their skills toward a nationally recognized credential while continuing to earn at their job.

A variety of industries and trades, from automotive to culinary, are represented through the MCC apprenticeship program. A full list of eligible employers is available on our Apprenticeships at MCC page.

Yes! Apprenticeship spans more than 1,000 occupations including careers in health care, cybersecurity, information technology, and energy.

Apprenticeship training is distinguished from other types of workplace training by several factors, including paid work experience, classroom instruction, mentorship, and a portable, nationally recognized credential.

No. While paid and unpaid internships can be valuable ways to gain experience and practice in an industry, they do not necessarily result in long-term employment or a nationally recognized credential. Apprentices, on the other hand, are already long-term employees. An apprenticeship program is able to offer skills and credentials leading to higher pay, as well as a nationally recognized credential.

Yes, apprentices are considered MCC students and will have all of the benefits and opportunities to take advantage of student services, student life and athletics.

Costs will vary based on specific course requirements and/or employer subsidy. As MCC students, apprentices are eligible to apply for financial aid. Check with your employer for any information on employer-based financial support.

The length of an apprenticeship program can vary depending on the employer, complexity of the occupation, industry, and the type of program.

Yes, unless you are a transfer student from another institution, and your transcripts waive this requirement. Apprentices are students at MCC and placement testing is part of the admissions process.

Yes, as long as MCC has an articulation agreement – an agreement to accept earned credit – from a college or institution you have attended in the past, relevant credits may be counted toward your apprenticeship. Please check to see if your school or institution is included.

While faculty may, at their discretion, waive specific classes, apprentices do not receive credit for any waived classes and will still need to obtain the necessary class hours in order to complete the program.

Pre-apprenticeship is a program or set of strategies designed to prepare individuals for entry into Registered Apprenticeship Programs or other job opportunities.

Apprentices may be asked to purchase or obtain necessary tools and equipment in order to complete their program. Some employers may subsidize or supply the necessary materials for apprentices. Check with your employer for more detail on these requirements.

A step-by-step guide is provided on the Apprenticeships at MCC page.

Cross-listed:

Cross list with the same College course (Example: WELD-143-01 and WELD-143-91)

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL):

A Cabinet-level department that enforces and administers federal labor laws to protect and promote the rights of workers, job seekers and retirees.

Journeyperson:

A journeyperson has developed skills and earned qualifications to handle higher responsibilities in a company, whereas an apprentice is an entry-level employee who is often trained and mentored under the supervision of a journeyperson in a specialized program.

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW):

A nationwide celebration in which employers, industry representatives, labor organizations, community-based organizations, workforce partners, educational institutions and Federal, State and Local government agencies host events to showcase the successes and value of Registered Apprenticeships.

On the Job Training (OJT):

A hands-on method of teaching employees how to perform their jobs while they are on the job. OJT can include:

• Observing others: New employees can learn by watching experienced employees perform tasks.
• Hands-on experience: Employees can learn by completing tasks under the supervision of a trainer or coworker.
• Job shadowing: Employees can shadow an experienced employee to learn how to perform specific tasks

Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP):

A training program that combines paid work experience with classroom instruction and mentorship to help people develop their skills and advance their careers. RAPs are industry-driven and vetted by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency to ensure they meet quality, safety and wage standards.

Recognized Prior Learning (RPL) / Credit for Prior Learning (CPL):

A process to acknowledge learning acquired outside of formal education and training programs, the RPL and CPL help participants access programs, earn exemptions from determined requirements and earn certifications.

Related Technical Instruction (RTI):

A component of Registered Apprenticeship programs providing theoretical knowledge and technical skills. RTI supplements On-the-Job Training (OJT) by filling in knowledge gaps.

• RTI can include: Classroom instruction, lab learning, textbook reading, written exams and hands-on training and mentoring on the job.
• RTI can be provided by online training providers, employers, labor unions and community colleges.
• RTI reinforces what is learned on the job and helps apprentices understand the "why" of their occupation.