complete work and school hours ,” he said . “ The program takes approximately three-and-a-half years to complete , and there are minimal costs and no tuition costs for our program . It ’ s the best way to learn a trade while being paid a good wage with benefits .”
Apprenticeships and the Bottom Line
Programs are more than just simple on-the-job training . Under Apprentice Florida , where any company can get help starting an apprenticeship program , there are five key components that registered apprenticeships must contain , including business involvement , structured on-the-job training , technical instruction , wage increases for workers as they gain skills and knowledge and industry-recognized credentials when apprentices complete their programs .
Successful apprenticeship programs can reduce turnover rates , increase productivity , lower recruitment costs and increase safety in the workplace , according to Apprentice Florida . And they can have a direct impact on the bottom line , with an average return on investment of $ 1.50 for every dollar invested in an apprenticeship program , the organization said .
The programs also benefit workers , who earn an average starting wage of $ 15 per hour and can earn $ 300,000 more over the course of their careers , according to Apprentice Florida .
King said one of the key selling points of the apprenticeship programs for businesses is their flexibility .
“ You can look at any company and create a program just for that company ,” she said . “ It can be smaller , more customized and meet the exact needs of the business .”
While there are requirements for on-the-job training as well as classroom instruction , King said businesses retain a lot of control over their programs .
“ The thing that makes it such a viable option for businesses is they are the driver ,” she said . “ They are the ones that are going to the training .”
Aaron London is managing editor of Evolve Digital . He is also an adjunct professor of journalism at Daytona State College .
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