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An Alternative Career Path Through Apprenticeships

Oregon Department of Transportation
While many apprenticeships are for trade union jobs, apprentice programs are available for a variety of careers.

At the same time that thousands of college graduates are having trouble finding steady, well-paying jobs, U.S. employers say they are desperate to fill open positions with qualified workers in order to expand their businesses.

For many, an apprenticeship can be an alternative path to a good career, in manufacturing, the building trades, IT, healthcare and an increasing number of other occupations.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 87 percent of apprentices are employed after completing apprenticeship programs, with an average starting salary above $50,000.

Joining us to discuss apprenticeship programs are Gateway Community and Technical CollegePresident and CEO Dr. Fernando Figueroa; and Greater Cincinnati Apprenticeship CouncilDirector Chris Fridel.

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 212 and The Cincinnati Chapter of The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) provide information on union electrical apprenticeships here. For information on union apprenticeship programs in a variety of trades in Greater Cincinnati, click here.

For more information on apprenticeships in Kentucky, visit KentuckyApprenticeship.com. In Ohio, visit ApprenticeOhio.

The Greater Cincinnati Apprenticeship Council is holding its annual Union Apprenticeship Career Fair on Wednesday, April 4. For information and to register, click here