084 - Why You Need an Apprentice with Jennifer Cowns
The Benefits of Taking on an Apprentice for Your Small Business: A Guide
“When we hear the word apprenticeship, typically that’s been tied to blue-collar professions or trades, but it goes much beyond that.”
As an SMB, you may be wondering if taking on an apprentice is right for your business. There are several benefits to having an apprentice, and with the National Apprentice Act of 2021, it has become easier than ever to set up an apprenticeship program. In this article, we'll cover what a registered apprentice is, the National Apprentice Act, how to set up an apprenticeship program, what makes someone an ideal employee, common misconceptions about apprenticeships, the importance of working with the youth, and the time frame for getting started on your apprenticeship program.
First, let's define what a registered apprentice is. A registered apprentice is someone who is learning a trade or occupation through on-the-job training and related instruction. Apprenticeships are typically sponsored by employers, labor unions, or other industry organizations, and they provide the opportunity for individuals to earn a wage while gaining valuable skills and experience. In order to become a registered apprentice, individuals must be at least 16 years old and meet any other requirements set by the sponsoring organization.
The National Apprentice Act of 2021 was recently passed to provide federal funding for apprenticeship programs and increase the number of registered apprentices in the United States. This act aims to address the skilled labor shortage by providing grants to employers who wish to set up apprenticeship programs, as well as tax credits for businesses that hire registered apprentices.
“It shows the apprentice that you are invested in their learning, but it also provides the mentor with that, hey, you trust me enough to train this individual.”
So, how can you set up an apprenticeship program for your company? First, you'll need to identify the trade or occupation that you wish to offer apprenticeships in. Next, you'll need to find an apprenticeship sponsor, such as a labor union or industry organization, to register your program. Finally, you'll need to develop a curriculum and plan for on-the-job training, as well as related instruction.
When it comes to hiring an apprentice, it's important to look for someone who is reliable, motivated, and eager to learn. Apprenticeships can be a great opportunity for those who are just starting out in their careers, as they allow individuals to gain hands-on experience and build a foundation of skills. However, it's also important to consider the long-term potential of an apprentice and whether they are a good fit for your company.
There are several common misconceptions about apprenticeships that may discourage businesses from taking on apprentices. One common misconception is that apprenticeships are only for those who are not college-bound. However, this is not the case. Apprenticeships can be a great alternative to a traditional four-year degree, and they can lead to rewarding careers in a variety of fields. Another misconception is that apprenticeships are only for men. While it's true that certain trades may have a higher percentage of male apprentices, there are many trades that welcome women as well.
Working with the youth can be incredibly rewarding, and apprenticeships provide a unique opportunity to do so. Apprentices are typically in their late teens or early twenties, and they are at a critical stage in their development. As a mentor, you have the chance to shape the career path of an apprentice and help them develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen field.
Finally, it's important to consider the time frame for getting started on your apprenticeship program. Depending on the trade or occupation you choose, it may take several years to complete an apprenticeship. However, the time and resources invested in an apprentice will pay off in the long run, as you'll have a well-trained and skilled employee who is ready to take on new challenges and responsibilities within your company.
In conclusion, taking on an apprentice can be a great investment for your SMB. With the National Apprentice Act of 2021, it's easier than ever to set up an apprenticeship.
When you hear the word “apprenticeship” you typically think of younger individuals in a blue-collared field, but that is not always the case. Nowadays, there are a lot of different apprenticeship programs and occupations where you are bound to find someone who suits your needs. Adding a tailored apprenticeship program to your organization can help you build a stronger and more skillful workforce that might just be the secret tool you’ve been looking for! Tune in to our newest episode today to learn all about apprenticeship programs and how you can get started on your own!
Show Notes
What is a registered apprentice? (9:38)
National Apprentice Act of 2021. (17:24)
How to set up an apprenticeship program for your company. (22:15)
What makes someone an ideal employee? (27:25)
Common misconceptions about apprenticeships. (33:53)
Working with the youth. (35:32)
The importance of having a mentor. (39:40)
The time frame for getting started on your apprenticeship program. (44:23)
Quotable Moments
“When we hear the word apprenticeship, typically that's been tied to blue-collar professions or trades, but it goes much beyond that.” — Jennifer
“In the United States, the average age for an apprentice is 29. Globally, it's 17.” — Jennifer
“How important it is to get a variety of experiences in your life and how much more valuable it is to people to have that.” — Khalil
“It shows the apprentice that you are invested in their learning, but it also provides the mentor with that, hey, you trust me enough to train this individual.” — Jennifer
“Another benefit of working with that particular person is that you have the ability to mold that individual specifically to your company, allowing for you to prevent the creation of bad habits.” — Jennifer
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