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Explore your Apprenticeship options

As the current population of experienced tradespeople nears retirement age, companies are scrambling to train and hire skilled workers. Apprenticeship describes a powerful training model in which aspiring tradespeople can learn from more experienced tradespeople and earn a living while they also attend school and receive scheduled, periodic advancement.

Types of apprenticeships in Oregon

In the State of Oregon, there is a robust system of what is called a registered apprenticeship. This system is very structured and leads to important state-issued credentials such as journey cards or licenses but the way that model is implemented can vary. The link below is a great place to get started if you are trying to learn more, check out the Oregon Apprenticeship website apprenticeship programs in Oregon.

Many registered apprenticeship programs are open-applicant and allow any interested person to submit applications for selection – most of the traditional construction trades use this system. Other programs are employer-sponsored and select apprentices only from a pool of existing employees – most industrial trades use this system. Many apprenticeship classes offered at PCC are part of employer-sponsored programs but there are other great options at PCC to get started on your journey to apprenticeship!

Why employers train apprentices

The combination of your on-the-job training and relevant classroom education is a tried and true approach to keeping your team top-notch and competitive. See the employer page for more information.

How to start your path to apprenticeship

Get started with pre-trades

Our pre-trades options are the perfect fit for you if you are interested in the trades but don’t have a lot of experience. They are fast-track programs designed to expose you to the trades and help build skills to advance your career and income. Attend an information session to get started:

Registered apprenticeship

Do you currently work for an employer who is (or might be) interested in training you as a registered apprentice in an industrial trade? If so, explore the different Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees (JATCs) that manage industrial registered apprenticeship programs in partnership with PCC and hold classes at PCC locations.

See the registered apprenticeship page for more details.

Certificates

For students considering careers in Apprenticeship and Trades

Certificate options
Award Length Financial aid eligible
Career Pathway Certificate: Apprenticeship and Trades: Pre-Trades Less than 1 year ban
Career Pathway Certificate: Pre-Trades for Advanced Manufacturing Less than 1 year ban

Degrees and Certificates for Apprentices

Only available during or after completion of a registered apprenticeship program

Degree options
Award Length Financial aid eligible
Associate Degree: Construction Trades, General Apprenticeship 2 years check
Associate Degree: Electrician Apprenticeship Technology 2 years check
Associate Degree: Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology Apprenticeship 2 years check
Certificate of Completion: Construction Trades, General Apprenticeship Less than 1 year ban
Certificate of Completion: Electrician Apprenticeship Technology Less than 1 year ban
Certificate of Completion: Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology Apprenticeship Less than 1 year ban
Certificate of Completion: Limited Electrician Apprenticeship Technology Less than 1 year ban
Certificate of Completion: Manual Trades Apprenticeship Less than 1 year ban
Certificate of Completion: Mechanical Maintenance Apprentice Less than 1 year ban

Locations

Next steps

Applying to PCC is free and only takes a few minutes.Apply now

Not quite ready to apply?

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