After a two-year pilot program focused on work-based learning opportunities exploration and research, SkillsUSA Illinois launched our new Registered Apprenticeship Program this past May. The program implements the SkillsUSA Illinois proven model that improves college and career readiness, creates employment opportunities, addresses equity in underserved communities, and expands partnerships between the workforce system, education, and business. SkillsUSA Illinois, a certified U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship Intermediary, facilitates their Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) process by connecting employers and schools to validate training, create apprenticeship opportunities, and then support apprentices from program start to finish. This opportunity will allow SkillsUSA Illinois to provide apprenticeships in high- growth industries to eligible students at current chapters focusing on high school juniors and seniors and first-year students in college to support workforce development and economic growth.
​
Through authentic work-based learning, SkillsUSA Illinois apprentices complete related technical instruction training in their classrooms and then receive on-the-job training at a worksite under the supervision of an industry expert. Apprentices are compensated for their work time on-the-job. Successful program graduates will earn the nationally recognized U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Credential, the SkillsUSA Career Essentials (career-ready) Credential, an industry-recognized employability skill development credential, and industry-specific credentials and certifications. This program truly fulfills the SkillsUSA Illinois mission, of “empowering members to become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens.”
For more information, contact the state office by calling 833.754.5545 or emailing apprenticeships@SkillsUSAIllinois.org.