The Manufacturers Association's
Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Youth:
For Educators
Do you know a student who is unsure about whether to attend college or work after high school? Does the student love hands-on learning? The Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Youth is for these students! We offer job shadows and internships at local manufacturing companies. By joining the program, youth apprentices receive critical classroom and on-the-job training that prepares them for a successful career and higher education.
Why Should My School Participate?
- Students will have hands-on opportunities to experience industry and gain skills.
- Apprenticeship is a pathway for college AND work … without the debt.
- Manufacturing offers high-demand careers, right here in Central New York!
What Are the Requirements to Participate?
- School is in Cayuga, Oswego, or Onondaga county.
- Interested in introducing students to manufacturing and technology.
- Student is 16 years old by March 15, 2023.
What Careers Does the Program Offer?
Industrial Manufacturing Technician (IMT)
Entry-level operator of manufacturing equipment, such as troubleshooting, safety procedures, and more. An IMT apprenticeship is the first position in a series of stackable credentials.
Electro-Mechanical Technician
Work on all electrical and mechanical systems in the plant: operation, testing, maintenance, and repair.
Quality Control
Ensure that products meet the expectations of the consumer. Critical use of attention to detail.
Engineering
Serve as the designers and developers of equipment, components, and systems. Guide technicians in implementing and running processes.
Plant Maintenance Electrician
Go-to person for the electrical, mechanical, HVAC, and safety functions of a facility. Includes troubleshooting and maintenance. Higher-level position.
Toolmaker
Use skills such as machining and welding to create precision tools for manufacturing equipment.
Machining
Set-up and operate computer-controlled tools and robots to make precision metal parts and instruments.
Welding
Produce metal products using welders, cutters, shapers, and more. Requires meeting strict customer specifications during fabrication and assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Registered Apprenticeship programs are regulated by the Department of Labor – they are formal agreements between the employee and employer regarding post-secondary requirements and “earn while you learn” on-the-job training. Upon completion of these requirements, the apprentice earns a nationally recognized credential, known as a Journey Worker certificate.
No. It is helpful for the student to have hands-on experience or classroom education, but it is NOT required. The student should be interested in technology/manufacturing to participate. Hands-on experience can include fixing cars, Lego projects, or anything that involves troubleshooting, mechanical/electrical components, and more.
While we certainly hope these students pursue Registered Apprenticeships when they graduate, it is NOT a requirement for participants. The main goal is that they gain some knowledge of what it is like to work in advanced manufacturing before they have made solid post-secondary plans.
Students will shadow between 4-20 hours during the spring 2023 semester. The hours and times are handled by the employer and student. It can be done during school breaks, weekends, during school hours; it is dependent on the individual situation.
- Now – March 15th, 2023 – Students submit applications
- January – March 2023 – Program outreach to schools
- March 15th – April 2023 – Student interviews with MACNY
- April 2023 – Zoom interviews with employers/students
- May 2023 – Students notified of match and “signing day”
- Summer or Fall 2023 – Students complete job shadowing; students in prior cohort intern or work part-time, depending on opportunities available with company
We will interview the students and inform them about the process. However, assistance from educators to support students in each step will be necessary. They will require help learning about the program, submitting their application, interviewing, setting up transportation for job shadowing, etc. This program will be a partnership between students, schools, and employers to ensure a positive experience for everyone. Educators will know best how to assist each student individually, as needed.
- Distribute the program flyer to students.
- Reach out to a member of the Youth Apprenticeship team using the form below to host an information sessions for students, teachers, and/or families.
- Share the program with technology classes, student clubs, and any other groups that may be of interest.
For over 100 years, the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce has spoken to the needs of the Brooklyn business community. Founded on February 6, 1918, the Brooklyn Chamber was, even then, a “modern” organization that saw itself as a protector and promoter of the commercial and industrial interests of the city.
Questions? Ask our team.
