Youth Apprenticeship
Experience Your Career Before Graduation
The Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program gives high school juniors and seniors the chance to explore a career field while gaining real, hands-on experience. Through a one- or two-year apprenticeship, you can:
- Make progress toward high school graduation
- Build valuable job skills
- Complete related coursework toward career goals
Youth Apprenticeships are coordinated by regional consortia and overseen by Wisconsin’s Department of Workforce Development (DWD). With employers across multiple industries participating, students can gain early access to in-demand careers and determine whether their chosen field—or even a Registered Apprenticeship—is right for them.
Youth Apprenticeship Benefits
Youth Apprenticeship comes with big advantages—both now and after graduation. These benefits help you build skills, save money, and get a head start on your future career.
Gain Real Experience
Start working early and gain real experience in your chosen career field.
Explore Careers
Explore your future by testing out a career or Registered Apprenticeship before high school graduation.
Save Money
Save money by applying eligible college courses and on-the-job experience toward your long-term career goals.
Finish Faster
Finish a Registered Apprenticeship faster in some fields, thanks to the experience earned during high school.
Youth Apprenticeship Levels
Students may complete one or two levels of the Youth Apprenticeship program. Each level includes specific coursework and work-based learning requirements designed to build skills progressively.
| Description | Level One (Year One) | Level Two (Year Two) |
|---|---|---|
| Grade Level | Junior or senior year | Junior and senior year |
| Work-Based Learning | 450 hours minimum | 900 hours minimum |
| Related Instruction | 1 high school credit (2 semesters) or 3 college credits | 2 high school credits (4 semesters) or 6 college credits |
| OJL Requirements | Complete 1 On-the-Job (OJL) Learning Performance Guide | Complete 2 On-the-Job (OJL) Performance Guides (same career area) |
YA Program Areas
Youth Apprenticeship (YA) opportunities are organized into broad YA Program Areas. Within each Program Area are a number of more specific Occupational Pathways. Explore the areas below to find out more about your Mid-State YA options.
Youth Apprenticeship Registration
Ready to get started? Youth Apprenticeships may start at different times depending on the level:
- Level One: As early as summer after sophomore year or as late as fall of senior year.
- Level Two: As early as summer after sophomore year or as late as spring of junior year.
All Youth Apprenticeships must be completed by August 31 following high school graduation.
If you’re ready to begin or want to learn more, talk with your high school’s Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator. They will help guide you through the registration process and answer program-specific questions.
You can also contact Mid-State’s Dual Credit for support.
More Ways to Earn Credit in High School
High school students have more ways than ever to get ahead at Mid-State. Explore all the college credit opportunities available to you. Each option helps you save money, build confidence, and start college with momentum.
