Apprenticeships
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a career pathway that combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices earn while they learn, gaining real-world experience under skilled mentors.
Each apprenticeship leads to an industry-recognized credential and prepares individuals for high-demand careers in fields like manufacturing, healthcare, IT, construction, and aerospace.
It’s a proven way to build skills, earn income, and launch a successful career.
Key Components:
Paid Work Experience
Apprentices earn while they learn—receiving a paycheck from day one with wages that increase as their skills grow.On-the-Job Learning (OJL)
Structured, hands-on training guided by an experienced mentor ensures apprentices master job-specific skills in a real work environment.Related Instruction (RI)
Classroom or online learning complements hands-on training, providing the theoretical knowledge needed for long-term success.Industry-Recognized Credential
Upon completion, apprentices earn a nationally recognized credential that validates their skills and enhances career mobility.Employer Partnership
Employers collaborate with CareerTech and training providers to design, deliver, and evaluate high-quality apprenticeship experiences that meet workforce needs.
Getting Started
Decide Which Option Works.
Our team works with employers to identify gaps in occupation and training. We build a program that works with the guidelines set by the employer to offer Related Instruction (RI) training to the apprentice. The employer then offers On-the-Job Learning (OJL) for the remainder of the apprenticeship program.
Options Available:
RAP- U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Registered Apprentice Program
A formal, employer-driven workforce training model registered with the U.S. Department of Labor that combines paid, on-the-job learning, related instruction, and mentorship to develop a skilled workforce while meeting national quality and compliance standards.
Minimum of 2000 hours of OJL
Require a minimum of 144 hours of RI
Mentor provided by employer
W-2 Employee
DOL Led Plan
Add Workforce Growth
CTA- Oklahoma CareerTech Apprenticeship
Minimum of 510 hours of OJL
Require a minimum of 90 hours of RI
Mentor provided by employer
W-2 Employee
Employer Led Plan
For More Information
Visit the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education website for details on how an Apprenticeship Program could benefit your business.
We Are Here to Help!
Employers can contact a member of our Business Development Center to discuss opportunities for an Apprenticeship Program for their workforce.
Previous Apprenticeships at SWTC:
Class A CDL Truck Driver
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Eligibility:
Adult & Secondary students 16 years old or above are eligible
Southwest Tech must have a current Apprenticeship with an employer to enroll
Contacts:
Kerry Evans, BIS Director
580-477-2250
kevans@swtech.edu
Jason Carter, BIS Coordinator
580-477-2250
jcarter@swtech.edu