What is a Business Apprenticeship?

2-year learn-and-earn program where companies train apprentices in core business functions on 3 days /week and sponsor their aligned college education at Harold Washington College on the other 2 days. They learn about business processes and integrate into the company culture to improve efficiency and become well-rounded employees.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE 2 YEARS OF TRAINING?

  • In their first year, apprentices explore the work in different departments of their sponsoring company.
  • They learn about the overall business and discover their interest and passion for a specific career.
  • Based on that discovery and the needs of the company for talent in certain areas, they narrow down the departments for training in the 2nd year.
  • Outside of fall, spring and summer semesters at college, apprentices work full-time at their company.

WIN-WIN

  • Companies build a talent pipeline for a loyal and diverse workforce
  • Apprentices earn an Associate Degree in Management & Marketing upon completion
  • Companies reduce employee turnover and associated HR costs
  • Apprentices have a competitive advantage to their college peers due to their work experience
  • Secure full-time position for a minimum of 2 years, after successful completion of training

Possible Departments for Business Apprentices

  • Human Resources
  • Accounting
  • Marketing and Sales

Possible Deparments for Business Apprenticeships

  • Events
  • Purchasing
  • Logistics

JOIN THE PROGRAM

Example: 2 Year Training of a Business Apprentice

YEAR 1

‘Getting to know’ the company by training in various departments:  Apprentice will be trained in your company’s core business functions
  • June: Front desk
  • July: Shipping & Receiving
  • Aug/Sept: Events and/or Logistics
  • Oct/Nov: HR
  • Dec/Jan: Accounting
  • Feb/Mar: Legal and/or Purchasing
  • April/May: Marketing & Sales
Quality check at the end of the first year to ensure the training/apprentice are on the right track with part 1 of ICATT exam.

YEAR 2

Evaluation of capability, interest and passion of the apprentice as well as future needs of the employer.
Based on outcome, narrow down future departments for training in 2nd year & employment after graduation
  • June – December: HR
  • Jan – May: Marketing & Sales

Final quality check at the end of the 2nd year to ensure the training was successful with final ICATT exam.

 

Prior to graduation: Determine which department is in need of an additional employee & offer position to apprentice.