New NIC program lets high schoolers explore apprenticeships

Pat O’Halloran, NIC CTE Special Projects director, tests a heavy equipment simulator recently at the NIC Parker Technical Education Center in Rathdrum. The simulator is just one of the tools available to students in the NIC Workforce Training Center Trades Pre-Apprenticeship program. 

By Tom Greene, North Idaho College

North Idaho College Workforce Training Center is piloting a new Trades Pre-Apprenticeship program that gives high schoolers a chance to see firsthand if it is the right path for them.

“Apprenticeships can be a commitment,” NIC Customized Training and Project Manager Colleen Hoffman said. “We realize that young people have a ton of options available to them and are being pulled in different directions. This new program was designed with that in mind.”

Students can gain hands-on experience in the fields of heavy equipment, construction, HVAC, plumbing and electrical. They can learn skills such as construction math and drawings, power tools, and materials handling. They can also earn certifications for OSHA 10, First Aid/CPR and the National Center for Construction Education and Research.

“Not only does it let them see which trade is the best fit, these certificates will give them a head start and make them more valuable to employers,” said Brenda Hamilton, NIC Workforce Training Center Apprenticeship Programs manager. “They’ll come out of the program and hit the ground running.”

One of the advantages of an apprenticeship is both the employee and the employer have buy-in. Employers know they have a proven commodity on their hands with an employee worth the investment. Employees have a clear path to success and typically will finish with journeyman credentials, which translates into substantially higher wages. They are also able to work while taking flexible classes that fit their schedule.

“The three-week, Trades Pre-Apprenticeship program culminates with a Job Fair on June 30. Employers will be there ready to hire new apprentices, knowing that everyone who went through the pre-apprenticeship program is making an informed decision,” Hoffman said. “Employers will know these students mean business.”

There is funding available that will pay for 100% of the $500 program. Registration is open, but there are less than 20 spots available and the program is first-come, first-served.

For more information, visit www.nic.edu/preapprenticeship or call the NIC Workforce Training Center at (208) 769-3333.

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