Jumpstart Your Career in Manufacturing

with pre-apprenticeship

Pre-apprenticeship programs are structured training initiatives designed to prepare individuals, especially those with little or no prior experience, for entry into a Registered Apprenticeship Program. These programs aim to build foundational knowledge, hands-on skills, and workplace readiness to ensure participants are competitive and successful once they transition into full apprenticeships or jobs.

Programs:

Real Life Rosies®

Inspired by the iconic Rosie the Riveter — the cultural icon who symbolized the strength and capability of women stepping into industrial roles during World War II — the Real Life Rosies® pre-apprenticeship program carries that legacy forward by opening doors for women in modern manufacturing. As New York State’s first direct-entry manufacturing training program created for women, Real Life Rosies offers a no-cost, hands-on learning experience designed to help women find rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing.

Next Trainings:

Central New York

Cayuga Community College:

Sept. 16th – Dec. 9th
Tuesdays & Thursdays from 3:30 – 6:30 PM

Sept. 15th – Dec. 8th
Mondays & Wednesdays from 3:30 – 6:30 PM

Sept. 30th – Dec. 18th
Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4 – 7 PM

Mohawk Valley Community College (Utica Campus):

Sept. 15th – Dec. 10th
Mondays & Wednesdays from 4:30 – 7:30 PM

Finger Lakes

Monroe 2 – Orleans BOCES (Rochester)

Sept. 16th – Dec. 11th
Tuesdays & Thursdays from 5:30 – 8:30 PM

Advance 2 Apprenticeship®

Advance 2 Apprenticeship® is a no‑cost, pre‑apprenticeship training program that delivers a comprehensive, hands‑on learning experience designed to build foundational technical skills and confidence for careers in advanced manufacturing. The program is open to both men and women who prefer to learn in a mixed‑gender environment.

Next Trainings:

Central New York

Mohawk Valley Community College:

Sept. 16th – Dec. 11th
Tuesdays & Thursdays from 3 – 5 PM

Cayuga Community College (Fulton Campus):

Sept. 29th – Dec. 17th
Mondays & Wednesdays from 4 – 7 PM

Benefits of Pre-Apprenticeship:

Foundational Skills Training

● Math and literacy specific to trades.
● Safety certifications (e.g., OSHA 10).
● Basic tool use and trade terminology.

Workplace Readiness

● Soft skills (communication, teamwork, punctuality).
● Resume writing, interview practice, and job search strategies.

Hands-On Experience

● Practical training in real work environments.
● Facility tours of local companies.
● Exposure to various trades.

Supportive Services

● Help with clothing and work attire.
● Transportation and childcare.
● Incentives when participants reach milestones.

Direct Pathway to Apprenticeship

● Guaranteed job interviews with local companies.
● Often includes agreements with Registered Apprenticeship Programs where graduates receive credit for pre-apprenticeship hours.