Apprenticeships offer a structured, formalized method of training that combines classroom theory with on-the-job; hands-on experience. Students attend class twice per week and are to complete 2,000 hours per year of on-the-job employment. Apprenticeship programs are developed by private industry employers who sponsor their employees. An apprenticeship program offers an excellent opportunity to advance in a chosen career. Completion of the apprenticeship program provides the foundation to sit for the City of Reading Journeyman’s exam in electrical, HVAC, industrial maintenance and plumbing.
There are many ways to provide apprenticeship training and instruction; Berks Career and Technology Center provides the integral role of classroom instruction to several Berks businesses for their registered apprenticeship programs. At BCTC, four different apprenticeship programs are offered: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and industrial maintenance. Each is intended to be completed in 3 to 4 years, ranging from 162 to 195 hours per year. After an individual completes instructional training and the required hours of on-the-job training; he or she sits for his or her Journeyman's exam in the City of Reading. Employing apprentices is good for the employer and the employee for many reasons, including reduced turnover costs, skilled employees, high productivity, higher pay, diverse workforce, and career advancement.
The related instruction the apprentices receive at BCTC coincides with what they learn in the field. Classroom instruction provides academic competencies that apply to the job. Upon completing all instruction, each graduate receives a nationally-recognized credential.
Berks Career and Technology Center strives to provide affordable and superior apprenticeship classroom-related instruction. In the 2017-2018 school year, BCTC provided classroom instruction to more than 100 apprentices, saying, “We are proud to enhance the workforce and opportunities for our students and employers, and we look forward to continuing to add skilled employees to Berks County.”
