What is Apprenticeship+

​Apprenticeships are an “earn and learn” training model, where structured on-the-job training is combined with classroom instruction. The Illinois’ Apprenticeship Plus framework identifies four training options using the apprenticeship model as a career pathway: Registered Apprenticeship, Industry Recognized Credential Programs, Youth Apprenticeship, and Pre-Apprenticeship.

There are five key elements of apprenticeship:

1. Business involvement;
2. Structured On-the-Job Training;
3. Related Instruction;
   
4. Rewards for Skill Gains; and
   
5. Industry Recognized Credentials.

Governor Support

The Governor’s Cabinet on Children and Youth chose the Apprenticeship Plus initiative as one of its inaugural projects to provide youth and students with the opportunity to learn about and have the ability to obtain high-quality, industry-recognized credentials utilizing work-based learning models within a specific career pathway that will lead to self-sufficiency.

Governor Rauner with thyssenkrupp Youth Apprentices

Illinois Apprenticeship Plus Model

Articles and Reports

• ​The Benefits and Costs of Apprenticeship: A Business Perspective (PDF)
  
• From Medieval to Millennial: Building and Marketing Modern, Youth-Oriented Apprenticeship Programs (PDF)
  
• Why Apprenticeships Are Taking Off (PDF)
  
• The New, White-Collar Apprenticeship
• Why a Major Hotel Chain is Offering Apprenticeships

Apprenticeship+ Partners

• ​Illinois Workforce Innovation Board Apprenticeship Committee
• Governor’s Cabinet on Children & Youth
• Illinois State Board of Education
• IDES’ Apprenticeship Information Center Program
• Illinois Community College Board
• U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship
• Young Invincibles
• Harper College
• AHIMA Foundation