For on-the-job training, gaining work experience, and often a faster track to education, apprenticeships offer an underrated path to a successful career. Learn how to find an apprenticeship and which jobs are viable options to gain this valuable experience.
America
Finding an apprenticeship in your line of work might seem daunting. However, resources like Apprenticeship USA and State Apprenticeship Agencies bring the opportunity closer to reach. Registered apprenticeships combine competitive wages, on the job learning, and nationally recognized credentials to set job seekers up for future success. According to Apprenticeship USA, 90% of apprentices who complete a registered apprenticeship retain employment with an average annual salary of $80,000.
While apprenticeships are typically viewed as limited to fields like construction, electrical work, engineering, and other blue collar positions, this hands-on learning can be practiced in many roles. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projected overall employment change by 2031 in 30 occupations that had the largest number of registered apprentices in 2022. Those jobs include:
- Barbers, Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
- Housekeeping Cleaners
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics
- Machinists
- Maintenance and Repair Workers
- Medical Assistants
- Registered Nurses
- Software Developers
- Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Canada
Each province and territory executes its own apprenticeship program to promote careers in the trades. Apprenticeship training is supported by the Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship (CCDA). The CCDA also oversees the Red Seal Program, which awards an endorsement to tradespersons who pass the Red Seal examination, providing a national standard for knowledge of the trades.
Job seekers looking for an apprenticeship can use the Ellis Chart to search for qualifications and requirements throughout the provinces and territories. Resources like the Job Bank can help job seekers find available apprenticeships, and Careers in Trades’ “A Guide to Careers in the Skilled Trades” booklet highlights the benefits of apprenticeship for young people.
Registrations for apprenticeships exceeded their pre-pandemic levels for many trades in 2022, according to Statistics Canada. More than 256,000 new apprentices are needed to meet demand in the trades by 2026 in the following jobs:
- Cook
- Industrial Electrician
- Industrial Mechanic (Millwright)
- Painter and Decorator
- Welder
Have you worked as an apprentice or provided mentorship for an apprentice? Share your experience in the comment section below!
About Express
Express has put more than 11 million people to work in its 40 years as a leading staffing company. Each of our more than 860 locations is individually owned and locally operated. If you’re looking for a job after completing an apprenticeship, contact the office nearest you.
Express Employment International supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and affiliated brands, including Specialized Recruiting Group and Express Healthcare Staffing. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
