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TREASURE COAST – Apprenticeships have long been recognized as a valuable pathway for individuals to gain practical skills and knowledge in various industries. In recent years, CareerSource Research Coast (CSRC) has taken the initiative to sponsor and promote apprenticeships, enabling individuals to embark on exciting career journeys. With a diverse range of registered apprenticeships available, CSRC has collaborated with employers to offer valuable opportunities for skill development and professional growth. Let’s take a closer look at the impact of these apprenticeships and the success stories they have generated.

CSRC currently sponsors seven registered apprenticeships, each tailored to specific industry needs and designed to equip apprentices with essential expertise. The Tech Support Specialist apprenticeship provides 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 328 hours of related instruction, preparing apprentices for the prestigious CompTia A+ certification. Similarly, the Network Support Specialist apprenticeship offers 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 591 hours of related instruction, guiding apprentices towards CompTia A+ and Network+ certifications. The Cyber Security Support Specialist apprenticeship goes even further, offering 2,000 hours of on-the-job training, 753 hours of related instruction, and preparing apprentices for CompTia A+, Network+, and CompTia Security+ certifications.

Other apprenticeships, such as the Industrial Manufacturing Technician, Distribution Logistics Technician, Marine Services Technician, and Truss Design Technician, offer comprehensive training in their respective fields. These apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with relevant instructional hours to ensure that apprentices develop a well-rounded skill set. Whether it’s acquiring a Certified Production Technician certification (MSSC-CPT) or gaining expertise in logistics and distribution through certifications like Certified Logistics Associate (MSSC-CPT) and Certified Logistics Technician (MSSC-CLT), these apprenticeships open doors to promising career opportunities.

One outstanding example is the Truss Design Technician apprenticeship, conducted in partnership with A-1 Industries. Since its inception in late 2019, this program has empowered fourteen apprentices, with an additional four participants in 2023. A-1 Industries deserves praise for its commitment to employee development, providing a dedicated training room and onsite instructional support. By investing in their employees’ success, A-1 Industries exemplifies the positive impact of apprenticeships on both individuals and businesses.

Financial support is crucial for the success of these apprenticeships. This year alone, A-1 Industries has leveraged $20,220 of funding from the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) for related technical instruction. Additionally, they received $16,000 in WIOA funding for on-the-job training, demonstrating the collaborative efforts between employers and governmental organizations to nurture talent and drive economic growth. In total, CSRC has enrolled 54 total apprentices in sponsored RAPs. Of those, 35 successfully completed, and four are currently active. WIOA funding was provided for 27 of these, and the others were covered by scholarship dollars funded by the RAP employers’ contribution of $500 per apprentice.  CSRC also connected employers participating in the Tech RAPs to TechQuest grant funding, which provided funding for the RTI for apprentices not eligible for WIOA funding.

The success stories emerging from these apprenticeships further highlight their transformative power. Ariel Arias, a Truss Design apprentice at A-1 Industries, attests that completing the apprenticeship was the best decision he ever made. Today, he serves as a supervisor, inspiring staff in other departments to embrace apprenticeships for personal and professional growth. Josephine Lovaglio, who completed the Technical Support Specialist Apprenticeship, was able to ascend from an office assistant position and is now recognized as one of Microtech Systems’ top employees.

The impact extends beyond individual success stories. Antonio Vargas and Nile Gentry from St. Lucie County Public Schools completed the cyber security apprenticeship, equipping them with invaluable knowledge and skills applicable to their work environment. Similarly, Jamal Mosely, a father of six, enhanced his expertise in information technology through the cyber security apprenticeship, enabling him to implement critical security measures at the City of Fort Pierce. These examples demonstrate how apprenticeships contribute to building a talented and skilled workforce.

To learn more about our apprenticeship program and opportunities call 866-4U2-HIRE or email info@careersourcerc.com

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