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Is Apprenticeship Right For My High School Student?

As a parent, you want your teen to have a valuable learning experience so that when they step out of the classroom, they are prepared with the life skills they need to find professional and personal success. What can apprenticeship offer them that other career pathways can’t? 

A Promising Career and College with No Debt

With an apprenticeship your student will:

  • Get paid to learn real-world skills
  • Earn a college degree with no debt 
  • Become ready for career advancement
  • Gain experience in an advanced field of interest

Early Career Start Equals Financial Stability

High school students are able to start the 4-year apprenticeship program the summer after their junior or senior year. Apprenticeships let students get a jump start on learning career skills and earning money. Students will: 

  • Finish high school classes while also starting college classes at no cost
  • Earn pay while learning on the job and during their time attending college classes 
  • Learn skills that are in high demand and that will prepare them for career advancement

Discover more about how apprenticeship works. 

Personal and Professional Skills for Life

As a parent, you realize navigating adulthood isn’t just about knowledge. It also includes personal skills. During an apprenticeship, students work with seasoned mentors, and the program is designed to help them learn:

  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Problem-solving
  • Responsibility
  • Leadership
Help your teen confidently answer "What's next?"

What High School Parents are Saying About Apprenticeship

“Ethan was interested in learning a trade. His plan has always been to go to community college and get a job. The apprenticeship program is helping him to get the experience and an education as well. Instead of just taking classes, he’s getting hands-on experience and seeing that this is a career path he wants to pursue. It’s been a great experience for him. He’s actually looking towards the future at the age of 18.”

Crystal Jones

mother of Ethan Jones, first-year apprentice with Machine Specialties, Inc., and a student at Rockingham Community College

Where will apprenticeship take your teen?

Watch this video and find out how other students are finding success with apprenticeship in Rockingham County.

Put Them on the Path to a Promising Career

Download our Apprenticeship Brochure and talk with your teen about their career goals. Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of fields, from information technology and logistics, to robotics and advanced manufacturing.

iPad graphic - RockATOP Apprenticeship Brochure

DISCOVER HOW YOUR STUDENT CAN APPLY TODAY