Apprenticeship Programs Directory
Earn While You Learn - Free Training + Starting Wages $15-25/hr
What is a Registered Apprenticeship?
Unlike trade schools where you pay tuition, apprenticeships pay you to learn. Start earning $15-25/hr from day one, with regular raises as you advance. By completion, most apprentices earn $25-40/hr.
Spend 4-5 years working full-time under experienced professionals. Learn real skills on actual job sites. Most programs include evening classroom instruction to supplement hands-on training.
Complete a registered apprenticeship and earn a nationally-recognized credential. Journeyman status opens doors to higher-paying positions, supervisory roles, and the ability to train the next generation.
Most apprenticeships include health insurance, retirement contributions, and union membership benefits. Union programs typically offer superior wages, job protection, and career advancement opportunities.
Program Overview
Top Trades
Should You Choose an Apprenticeship or Trade School?
| Factor | Apprenticeship | Trade School |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | $5,000-$30,000 |
| Earn While Learning | Yes ($15-25/hr) | No |
| Duration | 4-5 years | 6-24 months |
| Hands-On Training | Full-time on the job | Lab/classroom mix |
| Job Guarantee | Often included | Not guaranteed |
| Benefits | Health, retirement, union | None |
| Schedule Flexibility | Limited (full-time) | More flexible |
| Time to Career | 4-5 years | 1-2 years |
Choose Apprenticeship If:
- • You need to earn money immediately
- • You can't afford tuition
- • You prefer learning by doing
- • You want job security and benefits
Choose Trade School If:
- • You want to start your career quickly
- • You need schedule flexibility
- • You prefer structured classroom learning
- • You have access to financial aid
Good news: You don't have to choose just one! Many successful tradespeople combine both - starting with trade school for quick certification, then joining an apprenticeship program to advance their skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Each program has its own application process. Browse programs in your state, find ones that interest you, and contact them directly using the provided email or phone number. Some have online applications, others require in-person meetings.
Most apprenticeships require no prior experience - that's the whole point! You'll learn on the job. However, some programs prefer candidates with a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and the ability to pass a drug test.
Union apprenticeships typically offer higher wages, better benefits, and stronger job protections. They also have more structured training programs. Non-union programs may offer more flexibility but generally lower wages. About 5% of programs in our directory are union-affiliated.
Most registered apprenticeships last 4-5 years, combining full-time work with classroom instruction. You'll earn wages throughout the entire period, with regular raises as you progress through the program.
Ready to Start Your Career?
Browse 2,991 apprenticeship programs and start earning while you learn. No tuition, no debt - just hands-on training and a paycheck.