SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries said apprenticeships are one of Oregon's best-kept secrets for anyone entering the workforce.
Employers throughout Western Oregon are facing a critical situation. Many are losing qualified employees to retirement, and struggling to find skilled replacements.
For those interested in trade occupations, officials stand by apprenticeships as a great way to get started.
KEZI 9 News spoke with Stephen Simms from the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries about why apprenticeships are so important.
Simms, an administrator for the Apprenticeship and Training Division, said registered apprenticeships give students on the job training in addition to classroom training.
He said currently, there about 56 different occupations people can choose from. Opportunities range from construction to healthcare, to information technology.
"We see opportunities to not only fill those construction industry jobs," said Simms, "But also to fulfill that manufacturing sector which is changing and growing."
The apprenticeships can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years depending on the occupation. Simms said when finished, people can get a journey card which allows them to work anywhere in the country. He also said you get paid while training. Depending on the job depends on how much you'll make.
The application process for the apprenticeships also varies for each program. To learn more, you can go to the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries website, here.