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How Students Earn and Learn

Apprentices are able to earn money on the job as soon as they start the apprenticeship program while also taking college classes at no cost. In fact, students actually get paid for time spent in class. See how you can get a jump start on a promising career, a college degree, and financial stability.

  • Get paid for 8,000 hours of one-the-job and classroom training during the 4-year program
  • Earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) from Guilford Technical Community College
  • All tuition, books, and fees for the associate’s degree program are covered, so you graduate debt free
  • Have the option after apprenticeship graduation to transfer degree credits to most state four-year universities in order to earn a bachelor’s degree 
  • Obtain specialized certification and experience that is recognized and sought by employers
  • Many employers offer health insurance, retirement, and paid-time-off benefits to apprentices

The Value of Apprenticeship

The value of college classes plus pay received for training on the job and in the classroom is the equivalent of a $125,000 scholarship.

Apprenticeship YearClasses, Work & Training Pay
Initial Summer
(Pre-Apprentice)
Six weeks on-the-job training
2 community college classes
Paid a total of 40 hours per week
$11 per hour
First Year 
High School Senior Year if Accepted as an Apprentice Junior Year
Half a day of high school
Half a day on- the-job training and work
Paid for time at work
$12.50 per hour
First Year 
Post High School if Accepted as an Apprentice Senior Year
On-the-job training and work 80%
Community college classes 20%
Paid a total of 40 hours per week
$12.50 per hour
Second YearOn-the-job training and work 80%
Community college classes 20%
Paid a total of 40 hours per week
$13.00 – $16.00 per hour
Third YearOn-the-job training and work 80%
Community college classes 20%
Paid a total of 40 hours per week
$13.51- $19.00 per hour
Fourth YearOn-the-job training and work 80%
Community college classes 20%
Paid a total of 40 hours per week
$15.50 – $21.00per hour

Ready to Apply?

Find all the information you need about how to apply for an apprenticeship. You will learn about tours of local companies participating in the apprenticeship program, the application steps and timeline, student requirements, and more.