Pre-Apprenticeship

Definition & Framework
​What is Pre-Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a portable, nationally recognized credential.

There are six key components of a pre-apprenticeship as defined by the IWIB Apprenticeship Illinois Committee Pre-Apprenticeship Work Group:
  1. Inclusive Recruitment of Underrepresented Individuals
  2. Industry-Focused Curriculum & Training
  3. Hands-On Learning/Work-Based Learning
  4. Retention Services for Successful Participation & Completion
  5. Employer Partnerships & Connections to Apprenticeship Programs
  6. Strive for Credential Acquisition
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Curent State Investments

In January 2022, Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced $9.6 million in grant funding to support construction pre-apprenticeship programs, which will help create a qualified talent pipeline of diverse candidates through the groundbreaking Illinois Works initiative. 23 organizations provide pre-apprenticeship training and wraparound supportive services to 1,000+ participants, most of whom are underrepresented in the industry. View a list of organizations below and read more in the Governor's Press Release.

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