GRAYSLAKE – Looking to earn an education while working in industry? College of Lake County has new apprenticeship opportunities launching in the fall for students seeking career-related work experience and area employers looking for qualified candidates.
CLC plans to have 60 apprentices in manufacturing, health care, automotive technology, horticulture, information technology and business by August, said Sylvia Johnson Jones, executive director of CLC’s Career and Job Placement Center.
Unlike an internship, which is typically part time, lasts only one semester and involves no long-term commitment, an apprenticeship is paid full-time employment while attending classes to earn a credential. The student’s tuition is free, as classes are paid by the employer. In exchange, the student commits to work at least a year at the job after graduation.
“We’re excited about the launch of apprenticeships to support our community and workforce partners,” CLC President Lori Suddick said. “Through apprenticeships, CLC is contributing to the economic vitality of Lake County’s diverse communities by ensuring a sufficient workforce talent pipeline.”
The benefits to students go beyond the practical, hands-on education that supplements the technology and theory learned.
The apprenticeship program was created as a direct response to requests from area employers. As baby boomers continue to retire, employers benefit by grooming skilled workers and sharing the knowledge base with the next generation. Each apprentice in the program is assigned a mentor and learns on the job from a senior employee. CLC provides the technology and theory, while the employer provides the hands-on, practical application.
CLC’s launch of apprenticeships is good news for Garry Whitten, educational coordinator for internships at JST Sales America, a Waukegan-based manufacturer.
“Skilled trades people are hard to find because the average toolmaker today is in his or her late 50s and preparing to retire,” Whitten said. “Companies need to bring in a younger generation to learn. Our apprenticeships work well because their position is a longer commitment than an internship. CLC’s apprenticeship program, plus the college’s equipment and proximity to employers, will benefit our company.”
If you are an employer interested in hiring an apprentice or if you are a student who wants to start working at an apprenticeship, email cjpc.apprenticeships@clcillinois.edu.