Official Site of The State of New JerseyBecome an apprentice
Registered apprenticeship combines formal instruction with a paid, on-the-job learning program. You'll benefit by earning money while learning specialized skills that lead to a sustaining career. Employers may even subsidize some or all the cost of the outside training and education. Depending on their program and path, some apprentices will earn a degree and/or nationally recognized industry credential.
A Registered Apprenticeship Program is training model that combines paid on-the-job learning in conjunction with classroom instruction. Participants are given the opportunity to learn in an environment where they experience the real life application of skills taught in addition to earning wages for those skills gained.
One major misconception is that a Registered Apprenticeship Program is the same as an internship. Internships often times are unpaid, informal, and don’t necessarily lead to a career pathway. Registered Apprenticeship is full-time employment that includes on-the-job training and classroom instruction. The benefits of a Registered Apprenticeship also include pay increments based on skills progress and a nationally recognized credential at the conclusion of the program.
MYTH: Apprenticeships are for people who are not college bound.
FACT: Apprenticeships offer alternate paths to acquire job skills. Rather than traditional classroom training, apprenticeships also incorporate on-the-job learning, allowing participants to gain practical job experience. Registered apprenticeships programs also pay participants and reward them with wage increases as they gain further skills.
MYTH: Apprentices don't earn very much.
FACT: According to the USDOL, the average starting salary of a Registered Apprenticeship graduate is between $50,000- $60,000, which is very comparable to that of a college graduate. And don’t forget, a key component to a Registered Apprenticeship program is enabling apprentices to earn while they learn.
MYTH: Apprenticeships are for occupations such as the construction and building trades.
FACT: There are Registered Apprenticeship Programs for a variety of occupations, not just traditional trades. In fact, the NJ Governor’s Office has made it a key initiative to expand apprenticeship programs to non-traditional sectors, including those occupations related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
MYTH: I can’t afford to participate in a Registered Apprenticeship Program.
FACT: Did we mention apprentices are paid while they are learning? This is a standard of a Registered Apprenticeship Program and should help to offset costs. Depending upon the program, the sponsor may also choose to cover training expenses, or provide reimbursement to apprentices for a portion of the cost.
To compete for jobs in today’s economy, workers need to have the right educational background in addition to practical job experience. Registered apprenticeship allows participants to do both, saving time and money.
Develop skills and competencies in line with industry demands.
Acquire a nationally recognized, portable credential.
Reduce potential student loan debt upon program completion.
Earn while you learn.
Apprenticeships are available in many industries, including:
- Construction trades
- Healthcare
- Information technology
- Telecom
- Energy
- Advanced manufacturing
- Finance and business
- Hospitality
- Transportation
More industries continue to be added as we expand.
Fill out our online form to connect with us and get more information about apprenticeship programs. You can also email us at apprenticeships@dol.nj.gov.
May 14: Carpenters Technical Centers Open House
WHEN: May 14, 2025, from 8am-4pm
WHERE: 74 Fieldcrest Avenue, Edison, NJ
The Eastern Atlantic States (EAS) Carpenters Technical Centers New Jersey invites you to their Annual Open House. Come see what true workforce development looks like through the skilled union apprentices affiliated with the EASRCC, employed by EAS Signatory Contractors.
May 27: Construction Industry Career Day
WHEN: May 27, 2025, from 3-7pm
WHERE: NJ Convention & Expo Center, Edison, NJ
This free public event welcomes veterans, underemployed, unemployed, students, parents, and those looking for a new career. There will be hands-on demonstrations from New Jersey's construction trades, as well as display booths for colleges, trade associations, and federal and state agencies.
