Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you earn while you learn. Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce. Individuals obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, mentorship, and a portable, nationally-recognized credential. 

Internships are usually last one to three months, while apprenticeships programs take between one and four years to complete. Apprenticeships have a structured training plan, with a focus on mastering specific skills an employer needs to fill an occupation within their organization. Internships typically are not structured and focus on general work experience. Internships can be paid or for college credit. Apprentices are paid employees taking part in the program.

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

Yes, the apprenticeship model is adaptable based on the skills required by the employer and industry.

There are registered apprenticeship programs for a variety of occupations, not just traditional trades. In Tennessee, the goal is to expand apprenticeships into nontraditional sectors.

The United States Department of Labor has already established apprenticeships in thousands of occupations across many industry sectors. The framework for implementing an apprenticeship program for your business may already exist. If not, an Apprenticeship Director can offer many resources to help in developing a program and will assist you through the registration process. 

Employers have complete flexibility as to who participates in a registered apprenticeship program. In fact, many times, these programs are used as a means of upskilling employees to attain higher occupational titles. How a company chooses to utilize its program is up to management’s discretion.

Studies show a sizable return-on-investment from registered apprenticeship programs. Program participants are 94 percent more likely to remain employed with a company, reducing recruitment and turnover costs for employers. Investing in registered apprenticeship also increases the overall quality of work and productivity. Grant funding may also be available to help cover the cost of starting a program.

College is an excellent choice for many people, but apprenticeships are another educational pathway.  Apprentices can earn a credential, and in many cases a degree, and do so without acquiring any college debt. 

This is not the case at all. Apprenticeships offer a full-time career, using an earn as you learn model, in highly skilled and technical careers.

Apprentices are hired as full-time employees and their wages increase as they progress through the apprenticeship program. After completing the program, they become a master level in their field and have a full-time job with the employer. 

Not at all. Apprenticeships are for both union and non-union employers.