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Apprenticeship Information

What is an apprenticeship?

  • An employer-sponsored program and therefore an apprentice must be currently employed by a sponsoring company.
  • A highly organized system of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
  • A custom designed program offered to business and industry to provide employees with the necessary technical and academic skills.
  • A quality instruction program that matches the company's on-the-job training schedule.

Kalamazoo Valley Community College Apprenticeship Program is approved by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship, and the Michigan State Department of Education.

The Benefits of Apprenticeship

The employer benefits by...

  • Lowering cost by increasing productivity as employees become more skilled on the job.
  • Reducing labor turnover and absenteeism.
  • Motivating employees to learn new job skills.
  • Instilling loyalty in employees to learn new job skills.
  • Instilling loyalty in employees by demonstrating interest in providing training.
  • Developing a more skilled workforce that can adapt to the changing technology.
  • Assuring a means for passing skills and knowledge from one person to another.

Your Apprenticeship Training Partner

Kalamazoo Valley Community College is recognized as having a respected training program since 1979.

Our service to the employer includes...

  • Customizing a related training instruction program to meet employer needs.
  • Coordinating apprentice certification with the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship.
  • Registering company's employees for courses at KVCC.
  • Monitoring and reporting apprentice progress.
  • Offering relevant courses taught by faculty who are committed to enhancing the on-the-job experience of each apprentice.
  • Providing an up-to-date instructional environment in the Advanced Technology Center (ATC) and Labs.

Upon completion of the Apprenticeship Program the apprentice will receive a Certificate of Achievement from Kalamazoo Valley Community College, and an Apprenticeship Certificate of Completion issued by the US Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship.

Possible Trades and Occupations Listed below are some trades and occupations for which the college offers apprenticeship instruction:

  • Electrician
  • Machine Repairer
  • Machinist
  • Maintenance Mechanic
  • Millwright
  • Mold Maker
  • HVAC Technician
  • Tool & Die Maker
  • Welder
  • Tool Maker

If you are interested in learning more about how to begin an apprenticeship program, or to develop individualized programs or instruction please contact LaJoyce Brooks, MBA Director Apprenticeships and Prior Learning at 269-488-4873.