Kansas Apprenticeship Programs

Kansas Apprenticeship Programs

Kansas Apprenticeship Programs

Kansas Apprenticeship Resource Guide

Find Registered Apprenticeships, apprenticeship sponsors, community and technical college programs, youth apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, workforce assistance, regional resources, and other earn-and-learn opportunities across Kansas.

What Is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is an earn-and-learn approach that combines paid work with structured training for an occupation.

You learn by doing the job while earning a paycheck.

Depending on the employer and program, the training may be highly structured—or it may be more informal and employer-designed.

The details vary.

That is why it is important to understand what type of apprenticeship you are considering.

🟦 Registered Apprenticeship

A Registered Apprenticeship is a specific, formally approved type of apprenticeship.

Unlike the broader use of the word apprenticeship, Registered Apprenticeship follows defined standards and is registered through an authorized apprenticeship system.

A Registered Apprenticeship includes:

  • Paid employment — you are employed and earn wages while training.
  • Structured On-the-Job Learning — the program establishes what you will learn in the workplace.
  • Related Technical Instruction — classroom, online, or technical learning supports the occupation.
  • Experienced mentoring — you learn under the guidance of skilled workers.
  • Progressive wages — apprentices receive wage increases as their skills and experience grow according to program standards.
  • Defined training requirements — the program establishes the competencies, time, or combination required for completion.
  • Registration and oversight — the program must meet established Registered Apprenticeship standards.
  • Recognized completion credential — successful completion leads to a nationally recognized apprenticeship credential.

The key distinction is simple:

  • An apprenticeship can be employer-designed.
  • A Registered Apprenticeship must meet defined standards.

🟩 Employer / Unregistered Apprenticeship

Some Kansas employers offer apprenticeships that are not Registered Apprenticeships.

These can still be valuable paid career pathways.

They may provide:

  • Paid employment
  • Structured workplace training
  • Mentoring
  • Wage increases
  • Technical instruction
  • Industry credentials
  • College credit
  • Advancement into skilled employment

These features vary.

Before accepting an employer apprenticeship, ask:

  • Is this a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • How is the training organized?
  • Who will train and mentor me?
  • How long does the program last?
  • What skills will I learn?
  • How does my pay increase?
  • Is technical instruction included?
  • What credential will I earn?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • What job will I be qualified for when I finish?

Why Registered Apprenticeship Gets Special Attention

Registered Apprenticeship provides a defined combination of paid employment, structured training, mentoring, related instruction, progressive wages, and a recognized credential.

Kansas has expanded apprenticeship beyond traditional construction occupations into additional industries.

Career seekers should investigate apprenticeship and paid-training pathways in:

  • Construction and skilled trades
  • Aerospace and aviation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Agriculture and agricultural equipment
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Education
  • Public-sector occupations
  • Other skilled careers

Kansas' aviation and aerospace manufacturing economy makes the Wichita region particularly important for technical apprenticeship and employer-paid training.

How This Guide Is Organized

Use the sections that match what you need.

  • 🟦 Registered Apprenticeship — Kansas apprenticeship resources, sponsors, Apprenticeship.com, Apprenticeship.gov, and ways to find opportunities.
  • 🟪 College & Education-Connected Apprenticeship — Kansas community and technical colleges, Related Technical Instruction, employer partnerships, college credit, certificates, and degrees.
  • 🟨 Youth Apprenticeship — high-school pathways, CTE, Work-Based Learning, and resources for students, parents, and counselors.
  • 🟧 Pre-Apprenticeship — preparation programs designed to connect participants with Registered Apprenticeship and skilled employment.
  • 👷 Sponsors & Industry Programs — employers, unions, industry organizations, intermediaries, and established apprenticeship programs.
  • ✈️ Aerospace & Aviation — Wichita and Kansas' major aerospace-manufacturing economy.
  • 🌾 Agriculture & Manufacturing — agricultural equipment, food production, advanced manufacturing, and industrial maintenance.
  • 🏛️ Government & Public-Sector Resources — state and local government, transportation, utilities, education, and public employers.
  • 📍 Regional & Local Resources — Wichita, Kansas City metro, Topeka, Lawrence, Manhattan, Salina, Southwest Kansas, Southeast Kansas, and rural areas.
  • 🟥 Specialized Resources — veterans, people with disabilities, women in nontraditional careers, reentry, opportunity youth, and other groups.
  • 🟩 Beyond Registered Apprenticeship — employer/unregistered apprenticeship, OJT, paid Work-Based Learning, co-op, employer-paid training, and trainee programs.

For definitions of WBL, OJT, RTI, pre-apprenticeship, and other workforce terms, see the Apprenticeship & Earn-and-Learn Glossary on the Apprenticeship.com Resource Guides page.

What the Colored Squares Mean

  • 🟦 Registered Apprenticeship
  • 🟪 College & Education-Connected Apprenticeship
  • 🟨 Youth Apprenticeship
  • 🟧 Pre-Apprenticeship
  • 🟩 Other Paid Earn-and-Learn
  • 🟥 Military & Specialized Career Resources
  • ⬛ Search, Workforce & Discovery Resources

Other symbols identify industries or resource types such as construction, aerospace, manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, transportation, government, and utilities.

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=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 1B ===

🟩 Best Places to Start

Kansas career seekers should use state apprenticeship resources, federal apprenticeship tools, workforce centers, colleges, and employer career sites together.

Do not rely on only one search source.

🟦 Registered Apprenticeship in Kansas

The Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship, within the Kansas Department of Commerce, supports Registered Apprenticeship development across the state.

Use Kansas' apprenticeship resources to investigate:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Employer programs
  • Apprenticeship occupations
  • Education partners
  • Program development
  • Current apprenticeship initiatives

🟦 Kansas Registered Apprenticeship Program Directory

Do not limit your search to advertised job openings.

Use Kansas apprenticeship resources and federal sponsor tools to identify established programs.

Once you identify a sponsor, visit its website and determine when it recruits.

⬛ Apprenticeship.com

Use Apprenticeship.com as an additional national apprenticeship discovery resource.

Search by:

  • Occupation
  • Kansas
  • City
  • Region
  • Industry

If Registered Apprenticeship status matters, verify the specific program through an authoritative state or federal source.

🟦 Apprenticeship.gov

Use:

  • Job Finder for current apprenticeship openings.
  • Partner Finder to identify established sponsors even when they are not currently recruiting.

⬛ KANSASWORKS

KANSASWORKS is Kansas' statewide workforce system.

Use KANSASWORKS to:

  • Search jobs
  • Find workforce centers
  • Investigate training
  • Connect with employers
  • Ask about apprenticeship
  • Explore workforce funding

Search:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Aviation technician
  • Maintenance trainee
  • Machinist trainee
  • Healthcare trainee
  • IT trainee
  • Paid training
  • Development program

⬛ KANSASWORKS Workforce Centers

Local workforce centers can help career seekers identify regional employers and training opportunities.

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeships are recruiting?
  • Which sponsors operate in my region?
  • Which colleges provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Is WIOA assistance available?
  • Is On-the-Job Training available?
  • Are youth programs available?
  • Are supportive services available?

Search the Sponsor, Not Only the Vacancy

A Registered Apprenticeship can exist even when the sponsor is not currently advertising an apprentice opening.

If you identify a program that interests you:

  • Find the sponsor.
  • Visit the sponsor's website.
  • Check application periods.
  • Search Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder.
  • Contact the college or training provider.
  • Ask KANSASWORKS.
  • Ask when applications reopen.

Start With the Paid Job

Remember:

A college may provide the education.

KANSASWORKS may help with workforce assistance.

An intermediary may coordinate the program.

But apprenticeship includes paid employment.

Ask:

Which employer or apprenticeship sponsor provides the paid job, and how do I apply?

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=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 1C ===

🟪 Kansas Community & Technical Colleges and Apprenticeship

Kansas community and technical colleges can be important partners in Registered Apprenticeship, Related Technical Instruction, workforce training, and employer-connected education.

Depending on the program, a college may:

  • Provide Related Technical Instruction
  • Partner with Registered Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Work directly with apprenticeship employers
  • Help develop apprenticeship programs
  • Provide technical education
  • Award college credit where applicable
  • Connect apprenticeship with certificates or degrees
  • Support pre-apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning

An important distinction:

The employer or apprenticeship sponsor generally provides the paid apprenticeship job.

Do not assume that enrolling in a college technical program automatically makes you an apprentice.

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors work with this college?
  • Which employers are hiring apprentices?
  • Do I apply to the employer, sponsor, union, or college first?
  • Does the college provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship training earn college credit?
  • Can apprenticeship lead toward a certificate or degree?
  • Who pays for the education?

🟪 Kansas Board of Regents — Technical Education

Kansas' public higher-education system includes community and technical colleges serving regional employers and workforce needs.

Career and technical education can support fields such as:

  • Aerospace
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Mechatronics
  • Welding
  • Construction
  • Automotive
  • Diesel
  • Agriculture
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Transportation

Not every technical program is a Registered Apprenticeship.

Ask specifically about current apprenticeship sponsors and employers.

🟪 WSU Tech — Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing Resource

WSU Tech is an especially important workforce-education resource in the Wichita region.

Career seekers should investigate employer-connected pathways in:

  • Aviation maintenance
  • Aerospace manufacturing
  • Machining
  • Welding
  • Robotics
  • Automation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Automotive
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology

Status: Major aerospace and workforce education partner — verify the specific Registered Apprenticeship and employer before applying.

Ask:

  • Which aerospace employers currently hire apprentices?
  • Which employers provide paid training?
  • Does WSU Tech provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?
  • Can the employer pay tuition?

🟪 Johnson County Community College

Johnson County Community College serves one of Kansas' largest employment centers.

Ask about current employer-connected pathways in:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Automation
  • Construction
  • Information technology
  • Healthcare
  • Transportation
  • Other technical fields

🟪 Kansas City Kansas Community College

Kansas City Kansas Community College serves Wyandotte County and the Kansas City metropolitan labor market.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Technical education
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Automotive
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Employer partnerships

🟪 Washburn Tech

Washburn Institute of Technology — Washburn Tech — is an important technical-education provider in Topeka.

Career areas include:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Electrical
  • HVAC
  • Welding
  • Automotive
  • Diesel
  • Healthcare
  • Other technical occupations

Ask which current employers and Registered Apprenticeship sponsors work with the institution.

🟪 Manhattan Area Technical College

Ask about employer-connected pathways in:

  • Construction
  • Electrical
  • Industrial technology
  • Information technology
  • Healthcare
  • Other regional occupations

🟪 Salina Area Technical College

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Welding
  • Automotive
  • Diesel
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Employer-connected technical education

🟪 Flint Hills Technical College

Ask about current employer-connected pathways in:

  • Industrial technology
  • Welding
  • Automotive
  • Construction
  • Information technology
  • Healthcare

🟪 Other Kansas Community & Technical Colleges

Also investigate the institution serving your region, including:

  • Butler Community College
  • Cowley College
  • Dodge City Community College
  • Fort Scott Community College
  • Garden City Community College
  • Hutchinson Community College
  • Neosho County Community College
  • North Central Kansas Technical College
  • Northwest Kansas Technical College
  • Seward County Community College
  • Cloud County Community College
  • Coffeyville Community College
  • Colby Community College
  • Highland Community College
  • Labette Community College

These institutions can be valuable sources of technical education and employer connections.

Verify any apprenticeship relationship directly.

🟪 College Credit & Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship and college do not always have to be competing choices.

Depending on the program, a Kansas apprentice may be able to combine:

  • Paid employment
  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Related Technical Instruction
  • College credit
  • Industry credentials
  • A certificate
  • An associate degree

Ask:

  • Does apprenticeship instruction carry college credit?
  • Can apprenticeship experience count toward a credential?
  • Can industry credentials receive college credit?
  • Can I continue toward a higher credential after apprenticeship?
  • Does the employer or sponsor pay tuition?

Questions to Ask a Kansas College

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors do you currently work with?
  • Which employers are hiring apprentices?
  • Which occupations are supported?
  • Does the college provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?
  • Is pre-apprenticeship available?
  • Are paid Work-Based Learning or co-op opportunities available?
  • Is workforce funding available?
  • Who provides the paid apprenticeship job?
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=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 1D ===

🟨 Kansas Youth Apprenticeship & Career Preparation

Kansas students can begin preparing for apprenticeship and skilled careers through Career and Technical Education, Work-Based Learning, technical-college education, employer partnerships, and youth apprenticeship.

Start with:

🟨 Kansas Career & Technical Education

Kansas CTE helps students prepare for high-demand occupations.

Career pathways can include:

  • Agriculture
  • Construction
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Aerospace
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Engineering
  • Education
  • Other career fields

CTE can help students develop skills for:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Postsecondary technical education
  • Industry credentials
  • Paid employment
  • Work-Based Learning

CTE itself is not automatically apprenticeship.

🟨 Work-Based Learning

Kansas schools, colleges, and workforce partners may connect students with employers through Work-Based Learning.

Depending on the program, students may participate in:

  • Career exploration
  • Employer-connected projects
  • Workplace experience
  • Occupational training
  • Paid employment
  • Youth apprenticeship

Ask:

  • Is the experience paid?
  • Will the student be an employee?
  • Which employer participates?
  • What occupational skills will the student learn?
  • Is the employer a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor?
  • Can the experience lead into Registered Apprenticeship?

🟨 Youth Apprenticeship

Youth apprenticeship can allow students to begin occupational learning while completing high school.

Depending on the specific pathway, students may combine:

  • High-school education
  • Paid employment
  • On-the-Job Learning
  • Technical instruction
  • Industry credentials
  • College credit

A youth apprenticeship is not automatically a Registered Apprenticeship.

Ask:

  • Is this a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Is it aligned with Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Which employer provides the paid job?
  • What wage does the student earn?
  • Who provides technical instruction?
  • Can the student earn college credit?
  • Can the apprenticeship continue after graduation?
  • What credential will the student earn?

🟨 For Parents & Counselors

Parents and counselors should help students compare:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Youth apprenticeship
  • CTE
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Community or technical-college education

Ask:

  • Is the student an employee?
  • Is the opportunity paid?
  • Is it a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Which employer participates?
  • What occupational skills will the student learn?
  • What credential can the student earn?
  • Can the student earn college credit?
  • What happens after high-school graduation?

🟧 Kansas Pre-Apprenticeship

Pre-apprenticeship prepares participants to enter and succeed in apprenticeship.

It is not Registered Apprenticeship.

A pre-apprenticeship may provide:

  • Career exploration
  • Occupational preparation
  • Hands-on technical training
  • Safety training
  • Workplace readiness
  • Industry credentials
  • Employer exposure
  • Connections with Registered Apprenticeship sponsors

Pre-apprenticeship may be:

  • Paid
  • Stipend-supported
  • Unpaid

Before enrolling, ask:

  • Is the program free?
  • Is there a wage or stipend?
  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors participate?
  • What occupation does the program prepare me for?
  • What credential will I earn?
  • Does completion provide preferred consideration or advanced standing?
  • What paid opportunity can follow?

🟧 Evaluate Where Pre-Apprenticeship Leads

A strong pathway should provide a clear bridge:

career preparation → occupational skills → sponsor or employer connection → paid apprenticeship or employment

Do not evaluate pre-apprenticeship only by the classes it provides.

Evaluate where participants go next.

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=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 2A ===

👷 Kansas Apprenticeship Sponsors & Industry Programs

Finding a Registered Apprenticeship is not only about finding a current job posting.

A sponsor may operate an established apprenticeship even when it is not currently recruiting.

Registered Apprenticeship sponsors can include:

  • Individual employers
  • Groups of employers
  • Unions
  • Joint labor-management organizations
  • Industry associations
  • Community and technical colleges
  • Public agencies
  • Apprenticeship intermediaries
  • Other approved organizations

Use:

When you identify a sponsor, ask:

  • Which occupations do you train?
  • Which employers participate?
  • When do applications open?
  • How often do you recruit?
  • What geographic area do you serve?
  • What are the entry requirements?
  • Is testing required?
  • Where is Related Technical Instruction provided?
  • What is the starting wage?
  • How does wage progression work?

👷 Construction & Skilled Trades

Construction is one of Kansas' established apprenticeship sectors.

Search:

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Carpenter apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • Pipefitter apprentice
  • Sheet-metal apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Operating engineer apprentice
  • Ironworker apprentice
  • Laborer apprentice
  • Bricklayer apprentice
  • Painter apprentice
  • Roofer apprentice
  • Other building trades

Use:

👷 Union & Joint Apprenticeship Programs

Union and joint labor-management apprenticeship programs are an important route into Kansas construction careers.

Search for programs in:

  • Electrical
  • Carpentry
  • Plumbing
  • Pipefitting
  • Sheet metal
  • Operating engineering
  • Ironwork
  • Laborers
  • Bricklaying
  • Other building trades

Before applying, confirm:

  • Registered Apprenticeship status
  • Application period
  • Geographic jurisdiction
  • Starting wage
  • Wage progression
  • Related Technical Instruction
  • Training location
  • Testing requirements
  • Fees

Some programs recruit during defined application periods rather than continuously.

If applications are closed, ask when the next recruiting period is expected.

✈️ Aerospace & Aviation

Aerospace is one of Kansas' most distinctive skilled-career sectors.

Wichita is a major center for aircraft manufacturing and aviation-related employment.

Career pathways can include:

  • Aircraft assembly
  • Aviation maintenance
  • Aerospace manufacturing
  • Sheet-metal fabrication
  • Machining
  • Composite manufacturing
  • Avionics
  • Electronics
  • Quality
  • Industrial maintenance

Recommended searches:

  • Aircraft assembly apprentice
  • Aviation maintenance apprentice
  • Aerospace manufacturing technician
  • Aircraft structures technician
  • Sheet-metal apprentice
  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Composite technician
  • Avionics technician
  • Electronics technician
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice

✈️ Search Aerospace Suppliers, Too

Do not search only major aircraft manufacturers.

The aerospace economy also includes:

  • Component manufacturers
  • Machine shops
  • Fabricators
  • Maintenance and repair organizations
  • Engineering companies
  • Equipment suppliers
  • Industrial-service companies

A supplier may provide apprenticeship or paid training even when a major manufacturer is not currently recruiting apprentices.

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=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 2B ===

🏭 Advanced Manufacturing

Kansas manufacturers can provide Registered Apprenticeship and employer-paid training in:

  • Industrial maintenance
  • Mechatronics
  • Machining
  • Tool and die
  • Automation
  • Robotics
  • Electronics
  • Welding
  • Production technology
  • Quality

Recommended searches:

  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Tool and die apprentice
  • Automation technician
  • Robotics technician
  • Electronics technician
  • Maintenance mechanic apprentice

🌾 Agriculture & Agricultural Equipment

Agriculture is central to Kansas' economy.

Career seekers should look beyond farm labor alone and investigate technical pathways in:

  • Agricultural equipment repair
  • Diesel technology
  • Precision agriculture
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Electrical systems
  • Automation
  • Grain operations
  • Food processing
  • Refrigeration

Recommended searches:

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician apprentice
  • Farm equipment technician
  • Precision agriculture technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Process technician
  • Maintenance mechanic

🥩 Food Processing & Production

Kansas' agriculture and food-production economy creates technical careers in:

  • Industrial maintenance
  • Refrigeration
  • Electrical
  • Automation
  • Processing operations
  • Equipment maintenance

Search:

  • Food-production technician
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Electrical technician
  • Automation technician
  • Process technician
  • Maintenance mechanic

Employer-paid training can be particularly important in this sector.

Verify whether the specific pathway is Registered Apprenticeship.

🏥 Healthcare Apprenticeship

Kansas healthcare employers can use apprenticeship and other earn-and-learn approaches to develop workers.

Recommended searches:

  • Medical assistant apprentice
  • Nursing apprentice
  • CNA apprentice
  • Pharmacy technician apprentice
  • Sterile processing technician
  • Behavioral health technician
  • Community health worker
  • Healthcare apprentice

Ask:

  • Is the program a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Which employer provides the paid job?
  • Who is the sponsor?
  • Who provides Related Technical Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?
  • What healthcare credential does the program lead toward?

💻 Information Technology & Cybersecurity

Technology apprenticeship can provide pathways into:

  • IT support
  • Cybersecurity
  • Networking
  • Software development
  • Data
  • Cloud technology

Recommended searches:

  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Software developer apprentice
  • Help-desk technician
  • Network technician
  • Data analyst apprentice
  • Cloud technician

Search:

  • Kansas Registered Apprenticeship
  • Apprenticeship.gov
  • Apprenticeship.com
  • KANSASWORKS
  • Colleges
  • Employer career sites

🚚 Transportation & Logistics

Kansas' central location, interstate highways, agriculture, manufacturing, rail, and distribution economy create substantial transportation demand.

Search:

  • Diesel technician apprentice
  • Fleet mechanic apprentice
  • Automotive technician apprentice
  • Commercial driver apprentice
  • Transportation technician
  • Logistics technician
  • Heavy-equipment technician
  • Driver trainee

Check:

  • Trucking employers
  • Logistics companies
  • Distribution centers
  • Agricultural employers
  • Manufacturers
  • Fleet operations
  • Rail employers
  • Public agencies

🚆 Rail Careers

Kansas is an important freight-rail state.

Career seekers should also investigate:

  • Locomotive mechanic
  • Diesel mechanic
  • Signal technician
  • Track maintenance
  • Electrical technician
  • Equipment technician
  • Rail operations trainee

Rail training programs are not automatically Registered Apprenticeships.

Verify the specific employer program.

⚡ Energy & Utilities

Kansas utilities and energy employers provide technical career pathways.

Search:

  • Lineworker apprentice
  • Utility apprentice
  • Electrical technician
  • Substation technician
  • Wind technician
  • Instrumentation technician
  • Plant operator trainee
  • Maintenance technician

Some utility programs may be Registered Apprenticeships.

Others may be employer-designed apprenticeships or trainee programs.

Verify the specific pathway.

🌬️ Wind Energy

Kansas' wind-energy sector creates technical career opportunities in:

  • Wind turbine maintenance
  • Electrical systems
  • Mechanical systems
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Utility operations

Search:

  • Wind turbine technician
  • Wind technician trainee
  • Electrical technician
  • Maintenance technician

A wind technician program is not automatically Registered Apprenticeship.

Verify the specific employer and training structure.

🚰 Water & Wastewater

Kansas communities need trained water and wastewater workers.

Search:

  • Water treatment operator trainee
  • Wastewater treatment operator trainee
  • Water distribution operator
  • Utility technician
  • Maintenance technician
  • Instrumentation technician
  • Electrical technician

Check:

  • Cities
  • Counties
  • Utilities
  • Public works departments
  • Rural water districts

Ask:

  • Is the position paid?
  • Is training provided?
  • Does the employer pay for certification?
  • Is there structured wage progression?
  • Is the position part of a Registered Apprenticeship?
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=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 2C ===

🏛️ Kansas Government & Public-Sector Careers

Government and public employers can provide Registered Apprenticeship, trainee positions, technical careers, and other paid career-development opportunities.

Search:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Operator
  • Maintenance
  • Mechanic
  • Equipment operator
  • Public works
  • Transportation
  • Information technology
  • Utilities
  • Water/wastewater

A public-sector trainee position is not automatically a Registered Apprenticeship.

🏛️ State of Kansas Careers

Search career areas such as:

  • Transportation
  • Information technology
  • Skilled maintenance
  • Engineering
  • Healthcare
  • Environmental services
  • Facilities
  • Equipment operation

🚧 Kansas Department of Transportation

Search state employment resources for:

  • Highway maintenance
  • Transportation technician
  • Equipment operator
  • Engineering technician
  • Mechanic
  • Electrical
  • Maintenance
  • Trainee

🏙️ Cities, Counties & Public Agencies

Kansas cities, counties, utilities, public works departments, transit systems, airports, and other public organizations employ technical workers.

Search local-government career sites for:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Operator
  • Mechanic
  • Maintenance
  • Public works
  • Water
  • Wastewater
  • Fleet
  • Facilities
  • Information technology

Public employers may provide strong paid career pathways even when they are not Registered Apprenticeships.

🏫 School Systems & Education

Kansas school systems, colleges, universities, and other education organizations employ workers in:

  • Facilities
  • HVAC
  • Electrical
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Fleet maintenance
  • Building operations

Also investigate emerging apprenticeship pathways such as:

  • Teacher apprentice
  • Paraprofessional
  • Early-childhood educator apprentice

Verify whether a specific program is a Registered Apprenticeship.

=== END KANSAS — PART 2C ===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 2D ===

🟥 Veterans & Transitioning Service Members

Veterans and transitioning service members can combine Kansas workforce resources with national military apprenticeship and transition programs.

Career pathways can include:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • DoD SkillBridge
  • USMAP
  • GI Bill apprenticeship benefits
  • On-the-Job Training
  • KANSASWORKS services
  • Employer transition programs

🟥 Kansas Veterans Employment Resources

Start with:

Veterans should ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Occupational training
  • Employer connections
  • Veteran employment services
  • Career counseling
  • Workforce funding

🟥 DoD SkillBridge

Eligible transitioning service members can investigate approved civilian employment and training experiences.

Kansas career areas to investigate include:

  • Aerospace and aviation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Skilled trades
  • Information technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Healthcare
  • Utilities
  • Agriculture and food production

🟥 USMAP Military Apprenticeship

  • 🟥 United Services Military Apprenticeship Program — USMAP — Explore USMAP

USMAP allows eligible service members to complete apprenticeship requirements while performing qualifying military occupational work.

USMAP and SkillBridge serve different purposes:

  • USMAP — apprenticeship while performing qualifying military work.
  • SkillBridge — approved civilian career experience during military transition.

🟥 GI Bill Benefits for Apprenticeship & OJT

Eligible veterans and other beneficiaries may be able to use GI Bill benefits while completing an approved apprenticeship or On-the-Job Training program.

Ask:

  • Is this apprenticeship approved for VA education benefits?
  • Is this OJT program approved?
  • Can military experience receive credit?
  • Can previous training provide advanced standing?
  • What benefits may be available while I earn apprenticeship wages?

🟥 Kansas Military Communities

Military-connected career seekers should also investigate civilian and SkillBridge opportunities around:

  • Fort Riley
  • McConnell Air Force Base
  • Fort Leavenworth

Search:

  • Aerospace
  • Aviation maintenance
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Information technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Logistics
  • Transportation
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Facilities maintenance

🟥 Helmets to Hardhats

Veterans and transitioning service members interested in construction should investigate Helmets to Hardhats.

=== END KANSAS — PART 2D ===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 2D ===

🟥 Veterans & Transitioning Service Members

Veterans and transitioning service members can combine Kansas workforce resources with national military apprenticeship and transition programs.

Career pathways can include:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • DoD SkillBridge
  • USMAP
  • GI Bill apprenticeship benefits
  • On-the-Job Training
  • KANSASWORKS services
  • Employer transition programs

🟥 Kansas Veterans Employment Resources

Start with:

Veterans should ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Occupational training
  • Employer connections
  • Veteran employment services
  • Career counseling
  • Workforce funding

🟥 DoD SkillBridge

Eligible transitioning service members can investigate approved civilian employment and training experiences.

Kansas career areas to investigate include:

  • Aerospace and aviation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Skilled trades
  • Information technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Healthcare
  • Utilities
  • Agriculture and food production

🟥 USMAP Military Apprenticeship

  • 🟥 United Services Military Apprenticeship Program — USMAP — Explore USMAP

USMAP allows eligible service members to complete apprenticeship requirements while performing qualifying military occupational work.

USMAP and SkillBridge serve different purposes:

  • USMAP — apprenticeship while performing qualifying military work.
  • SkillBridge — approved civilian career experience during military transition.

🟥 GI Bill Benefits for Apprenticeship & OJT

Eligible veterans and other beneficiaries may be able to use GI Bill benefits while completing an approved apprenticeship or On-the-Job Training program.

Ask:

  • Is this apprenticeship approved for VA education benefits?
  • Is this OJT program approved?
  • Can military experience receive credit?
  • Can previous training provide advanced standing?
  • What benefits may be available while I earn apprenticeship wages?

🟥 Kansas Military Communities

Military-connected career seekers should also investigate civilian and SkillBridge opportunities around:

  • Fort Riley
  • McConnell Air Force Base
  • Fort Leavenworth

Search:

  • Aerospace
  • Aviation maintenance
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Information technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Logistics
  • Transportation
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Facilities maintenance

🟥 Helmets to Hardhats

Veterans and transitioning service members interested in construction should investigate Helmets to Hardhats.

=== END KANSAS — PART 2D ===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 2E CONTINUED ===

Ask your local workforce center about:

  • WIOA youth services
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Occupational training
  • Employer connections
  • Supportive services

🟥 Career Changers & Dislocated Workers

Apprenticeship is not only for people entering the workforce for the first time.

Adults changing careers or workers affected by layoffs should investigate:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • WIOA-funded training
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Community or technical-college education
  • Employer-paid training

Resources:

🟥 Rural Kansas Career Seekers

Apprenticeship is not limited to Wichita, Kansas City, or Topeka.

Rural career seekers should investigate:

  • Agriculture
  • Agricultural equipment
  • Food processing
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Utilities
  • Transportation
  • Wind energy
  • Public works

Ask:

  • Does the sponsor serve multiple counties?
  • Where is Related Technical Instruction?
  • Is online instruction available?
  • How far will I need to travel?
  • Is transportation assistance available?
  • Are supportive services available?

Technical colleges, community colleges, and KANSASWORKS workforce centers can be particularly valuable local contacts.

How Specialized Resources Fit Into Your Search

Specialized programs should supplement—not replace—the main apprenticeship search.

Use both:

Main search resources

  • Kansas Registered Apprenticeship
  • Apprenticeship.com
  • Apprenticeship.gov Job Finder
  • Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder
  • KANSASWORKS
  • Community and technical colleges
  • Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Employer career sites

Specialized resources

  • Veterans services
  • SkillBridge
  • Vocational Rehabilitation
  • Youth workforce programs
  • Reentry resources
  • WIOA
  • Other population-specific assistance

A specialized program may help with preparation, training costs, supportive services, or employer connections.

The paid apprenticeship job still comes from the employer or apprenticeship sponsor.

=== END KANSAS — PART 2E ===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 3A ===

📍 Kansas Regional & Local Resources

Kansas' industries and apprenticeship opportunities vary substantially by region.

Use statewide apprenticeship resources together with KANSASWORKS, community and technical colleges, public employers, utilities, apprenticeship sponsors, unions, and employer career sites.

Each regional section includes:

  • Priority industries
  • Recommended occupations to search
  • Direct local resources

The occupation lists are search recommendations, not claims that a current apprenticeship opening exists.

📍 Wichita & South-Central Kansas

Wichita is one of the country's major aerospace-manufacturing centers, making this region especially important for technical apprenticeship and employer-paid training.

Priority Industries

  • Aerospace and aviation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Machining
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Information technology
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Aircraft assembly apprentice
  • Aerospace manufacturing technician
  • Aviation maintenance technician
  • Aircraft structures technician
  • Composite technician
  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Machinist apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Electronics technician
  • Avionics technician
  • Welder
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • IT technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

Search aerospace manufacturers, suppliers, machine shops, aviation-maintenance employers, healthcare systems, contractors, utilities, and public agencies directly.

📍 Kansas City Metro — Kansas Side

Priority Industries

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Automotive
  • Utilities
  • Public-sector employment

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Automation technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • Plumbing apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Automotive technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Logistics technician
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Direct Local Resources

The Kansas City labor market crosses the Kansas-Missouri border.

Search apprenticeship sponsors and employers on both sides when commuting is realistic.

📍 Topeka & Northeast Kansas

Priority Industries

  • State government
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Utilities
  • Technical services

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Welder
  • Automotive technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • IT technician
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator
  • Facilities technician

Direct Local Resources

Because Topeka is the state capital, include state-government technical, maintenance, transportation, IT, and trainee positions in your search.

=== END KANSAS — PART 3A ===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 3B ===

📍 Lawrence & Douglas County

Priority Industries

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Information technology
  • Biosciences
  • Utilities
  • Public-sector employment
  • Education

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Medical assistant apprentice
  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Facilities technician
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Direct Local Resources

Also search employers in nearby Topeka and the Kansas City metro when commuting is realistic.

📍 Manhattan, Junction City & Flint Hills

Priority Industries

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Agriculture
  • Biosciences
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Defense-connected employment

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Laboratory technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • IT technician
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Diesel technician
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Direct Local Resources

The Fort Riley area makes military-transition resources particularly relevant.

Search SkillBridge and veteran employment opportunities alongside civilian apprenticeship.

📍 Salina & North-Central Kansas

Priority Industries

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Agriculture
  • Aviation
  • Transportation
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Welder
  • Aviation technician
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

📍 Hutchinson & Central Kansas

Priority Industries

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Agriculture
  • Food processing
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Energy
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Food-production technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Diesel technician
  • Wind technician
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

📍 Emporia & East-Central Kansas

Priority Industries

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Food production
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Agriculture
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Food-production technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Diesel technician
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

=== END KANSAS — PART 3B ===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 3C ===

📍 Southwest Kansas — Dodge City, Garden City & Liberal

Priority Industries

  • Agriculture
  • Food processing
  • Meat processing
  • Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Food-production technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Electrical technician
  • Process technician
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Logistics technician
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

Food-processing facilities employ technical workers far beyond production-line occupations.

Search specifically for:

  • Industrial maintenance
  • Refrigeration
  • Electrical
  • Automation
  • Controls
  • Utilities
  • Equipment maintenance

📍 Southeast Kansas

Priority Industries

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Agriculture
  • Transportation
  • Food production
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Welder
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Direct Local Resources

📍 Northwest & Western Kansas

Priority Industries

  • Agriculture
  • Agricultural equipment
  • Wind energy
  • Healthcare
  • Transportation
  • Construction
  • Utilities
  • Food production

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Wind turbine technician
  • Utility technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Food-production technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Direct Local Resources

📍 Rural Kansas

Do not assume apprenticeship exists only in Kansas' largest cities.

Rural Kansas employers need skilled workers in:

  • Agriculture
  • Agricultural equipment
  • Food processing
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Utilities
  • Wind energy
  • Transportation
  • Public infrastructure

If you live in a smaller community:

  • 🟦 Search Kansas Registered Apprenticeship resources.
  • 🟦 Search Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder.
  • ⬛ Search Apprenticeship.com.
  • ⬛ Search KANSASWORKS.
  • 🟪 Contact the nearest community or technical college.
  • 👷 Search union and industry apprenticeship sponsors.
  • 🏛️ Search county and municipal government.
  • 🚰 Search rural water districts and wastewater systems.
  • ⚡ Search utilities and electric cooperatives.
  • 🏥 Search hospitals and healthcare systems.
  • 🌾 Search agriculture and food-processing employers.
  • 🏭 Search manufacturers.
  • 🚚 Search transportation employers.

Expand into neighboring counties when commuting is realistic.

Kansas Regional Search Checklist

For the region where you want to work, check:

  • 🟦 Kansas Registered Apprenticeship
  • ⬛ Apprenticeship.com
  • 🟦 Apprenticeship.gov Job Finder
  • 🟦 Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder
  • ⬛ KANSASWORKS
  • 🟪 Regional community or technical college
  • 🟨 CTE, youth apprenticeship, and Work-Based Learning
  • 🟧 Pre-apprenticeship
  • 👷 Union and apprenticeship sponsors
  • 🏛️ State and local government
  • 🚧 Kansas Department of Transportation
  • 🚰 Water/wastewater systems
  • ⚡ Utilities
  • 🏥 Healthcare employers
  • ✈️ Aerospace and aviation employers
  • 🏭 Manufacturers
  • 🌾 Agriculture and food-processing employers
  • 🚚 Transportation and logistics employers
  • 💻 Technology employers
  • 🏢 Employer career sites

How to Search an Occupation Locally

Take an occupation from the regional lists and search several variations.

For example:

  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance trainee
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Maintenance mechanic
  • Manufacturing maintenance technician

Then add:

  • Your city
  • Your county
  • Your region
  • Kansas

The same career pathway may appear under several different job titles.

Search the Sponsor, Not Only the Vacancy

Once you identify a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor:

  • Visit its website.
  • Determine the geographic area it serves.
  • Check application periods.
  • Review minimum qualifications.
  • Identify the Related Technical Instruction provider.
  • Ask whether applications are accepted year-round.
  • Ask when the next apprentice class begins.

An apprenticeship can be worth tracking even when it is not hiring today.

=== END KANSAS — PART 3C ===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 4A ===

🟩 Beyond Registered Apprenticeship

Registered Apprenticeship should be one of the first places you look for paid career training.

But it is not the only way to earn while learning.

If a Registered Apprenticeship is not available in the occupation or community you want, investigate:

  • Employer / unregistered apprenticeship
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Co-op / Cooperative Education
  • Employer-paid technical training
  • Technician trainee programs
  • Operator trainee programs
  • Maintenance trainee programs
  • Employer academies
  • Career-development programs

These can be excellent career pathways.

They simply should not be assumed to provide the same structure or credential as Registered Apprenticeship.

🟩 Employer / Unregistered Apprenticeship

Some Kansas employers may offer paid programs they describe as apprenticeships even when the program is not a Registered Apprenticeship.

An employer apprenticeship may provide:

  • Paid employment
  • Structured workplace training
  • Mentoring
  • Technical instruction
  • Wage increases
  • Industry credentials
  • College credit
  • Advancement into skilled employment

These features vary.

Before accepting an employer apprenticeship, ask:

  • Is this a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • If so, who registers the program?
  • How is training structured?
  • Who provides mentoring?
  • What is the starting wage?
  • How does pay progress?
  • Is technical instruction included?
  • What credential will I earn?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • What position does successful completion lead to?

Unregistered does not automatically mean low quality.

It means you should evaluate the program based on what it actually provides.

🟩 Kansas On-the-Job Training

On-the-Job Training — OJT — can provide another route into paid employment.

Start with:

In a workforce OJT arrangement, an employer hires and trains a worker while the workforce system may help support eligible training costs.

The participant earns wages while learning the job.

OJT is not automatically Registered Apprenticeship.

Ask:

  • Is there a Registered Apprenticeship in this occupation?
  • If not, is OJT available?
  • Which employers participate?
  • Am I eligible?
  • What job does the training lead to?
  • Could OJT lead into a Registered Apprenticeship?

🟩 Paid Work-Based Learning

Paid Work-Based Learning can provide career experience even when a full apprenticeship is not available.

Depending on the program, Work-Based Learning may involve:

  • Paid workplace experience
  • Employer-connected education
  • Career and Technical Education
  • Community or technical-college programs
  • Youth workforce programs
  • Occupational training

Ask:

  • Is this paid?
  • Will I be an employee?
  • What occupational skills will I learn?
  • How long does the experience last?
  • Can I earn an industry credential?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Can it lead to permanent employment?
  • Can it lead to Registered Apprenticeship?

🟩 Co-op / Cooperative Education

Kansas colleges, schools, and employers may offer cooperative education or other structured employment connected with education.

Ask:

  • Which employers participate?
  • Are the positions paid?
  • Which academic or technical programs participate?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Can co-op lead to permanent employment?
  • Does the employer also operate a Registered Apprenticeship?

Co-op is not automatically Registered Apprenticeship.

🟩 Employer-Paid Training & Trainee Programs

Do not search only for apprentice.

Kansas employers may recruit using titles such as:

  • Aerospace manufacturing technician
  • Aircraft structures trainee
  • Aviation technician trainee
  • Manufacturing technician trainee
  • Industrial maintenance trainee
  • CNC trainee
  • Machinist trainee
  • Maintenance trainee
  • Process technician
  • Operator trainee
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Refrigeration trainee
  • Diesel technician trainee
  • Utility trainee
  • Healthcare trainee
  • IT trainee
  • Development program
  • Academy

Search through:

🟩 Employer Training in Major Kansas Industries

Employer-paid training can be especially important in:

  • Aerospace and aviation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Agriculture
  • Agricultural equipment
  • Food processing
  • Healthcare
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Information technology
  • Wind energy

An employer may use trainee, technician, operator, or development program rather than apprentice.

Search all of these terms.

How to Compare Paid Training Opportunities

For any opportunity, determine:

  • Is it paid?
  • Will I be an employee?
  • Is training structured?
  • Will I have an experienced mentor?
  • Does pay increase as my skills develop?
  • Is technical instruction included?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Will I earn an industry credential?
  • Is there a permanent-employment pathway?
  • Is it a Registered Apprenticeship?

A strong employer-paid training program can be an excellent career pathway even when it is not Registered Apprenticeship.

The important thing is knowing what the program actually provides.

=== END KANSAS — PART 4A ===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 4B ===

💰 Free & Funded Career Training

If you cannot find the apprenticeship you want immediately, do not assume your only alternative is paying substantial tuition for training.

Kansas workforce and education programs may help eligible career seekers obtain occupational training or prepare for paid employment.

Training is not automatically apprenticeship.

The goal is to determine whether training can help you move toward:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Paid employment
  • A skilled occupation
  • An industry credential
  • Career advancement

💰 KANSASWORKS Training Assistance

Start with KANSASWORKS.

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • WIOA-funded training
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Occupational training
  • Supportive services
  • Employer-connected training

Eligibility and available funding vary.

💰 WIOA Training Assistance

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act — WIOA — can help eligible career seekers obtain employment and training services.

Ask:

  • Am I eligible for WIOA assistance?
  • Can WIOA support this training?
  • Is there a Registered Apprenticeship in this occupation?
  • Can apprenticeship-related training costs be supported?
  • Is On-the-Job Training available?
  • Are supportive services available?
  • Is the training provider eligible for workforce funding?

Investigate assistance before assuming you must pay the full cost yourself.

💰 Kansas Promise Scholarship

The Kansas Promise Scholarship can help eligible Kansas students pursue certain qualifying programs at participating institutions.

Eligible programs, institutions, funding, service obligations, and other requirements can change.

Ask:

  • Is my program currently eligible?
  • Do I meet current eligibility requirements?
  • What costs are covered?
  • What costs remain?
  • Is this education connected with a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Which employers hire from the program?
  • What obligations accompany the scholarship?

A Kansas Promise Scholarship-supported program is not automatically an apprenticeship.

💰 Community & Technical College Training

Before paying for private career training, investigate Kansas community and technical colleges.

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Related Technical Instruction
  • Employer-paid education
  • Kansas Promise Scholarship
  • WIOA
  • Financial aid
  • Short-term credentials
  • Technical certificates
  • College credit
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Co-op
  • Employer partnerships

💰 Employer-Paid Education

Kansas employers may pay some or all of the education connected with:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Technical training
  • Industry certification
  • College coursework
  • Tuition assistance
  • Career-development programs

Ask:

  • Do you pay for Related Technical Instruction?
  • Is tuition reimbursed?
  • Are books included?
  • Are tools included?
  • Are certification or licensing fees covered?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Is there an employment commitment after employer-funded training?

🟧 Before Paying for Pre-Apprenticeship

Before paying tuition for pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship-readiness training, ask:

  • Is a free program available?
  • Is grant funding available?
  • Is there a wage or stipend?
  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors recognize the program?
  • Which employers recruit participants?
  • What credential will I earn?
  • Does completion provide preferred consideration or advanced standing?
  • What paid opportunity follows?

Be cautious about paying substantial tuition solely for the possibility of later applying to an apprenticeship.

🟩 Supportive Services

Eligible workforce-program participants may be able to receive assistance addressing barriers to employment or training.

Depending on the program and available funding, assistance may include:

  • Transportation
  • Child care
  • Tools
  • Work clothing
  • Testing fees
  • Training expenses
  • Other employment-related needs

Ask KANSASWORKS what assistance is currently available.

💰 Compare Training Before You Pay

Before paying for career training, compare:

Registered Apprenticeship — paid employment plus structured training.

Employer-Paid Training — the employer pays you and provides or pays for training.

Workforce-Funded Training — WIOA or another workforce program may pay qualifying training costs.

Kansas Promise Scholarship-Supported Training — eligible students may receive assistance for qualifying education programs.

Community or Technical College Training — financial aid, grants, employer assistance, or workforce funding may reduce your cost.

Self-Paid Training — you pay the cost yourself.

Self-paid training may be appropriate in some situations, but investigate the other options first.

=== END KANSAS — PART 4B===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 4C ===

Your Kansas Apprenticeship Search Plan

You do not need to search every resource at once.

Use this sequence to build a focused apprenticeship search.

Step 1 — Choose the Career First

Start with two or three occupations you actually want to investigate.

Ask:

  • What kind of work interests me?
  • Which occupations are strong in my region?
  • Do I prefer construction, aerospace, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, agriculture, transportation, utilities, or another type of work?
  • How far am I willing to commute?
  • What education, credentials, or work experience do I already have?

Then search apprenticeship pathways into those occupations.

Step 2 — Start With Kansas Registered Apprenticeship

Use Kansas' official apprenticeship resources to investigate:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Employer programs
  • Apprenticeship occupations
  • Education partners
  • Current apprenticeship initiatives

Step 3 — Search Apprenticeship.com

Search by:

  • Occupation
  • Industry
  • Kansas
  • City or region

Use Apprenticeship.com alongside official state and federal resources.

Step 4 — Search Apprenticeship.gov Job Finder

Look for current apprentice openings.

If nothing appears, continue searching established sponsors.

Step 5 — Find Sponsors

A sponsor may operate an established apprenticeship even when there is no current vacancy.

Research:

  • Sponsor website
  • Occupations
  • Participating employers
  • Application periods
  • Entry requirements
  • Geographic area
  • Recruiting schedule
  • Related Technical Instruction provider

Step 6 — Search KANSASWORKS

Do not search only apprentice.

Also try:

  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Aerospace technician
  • Aircraft structures technician
  • Aviation maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance trainee
  • Machinist trainee
  • CNC trainee
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Operator trainee
  • Healthcare trainee
  • IT trainee
  • Paid training
  • Development program

Step 7 — Contact KANSASWORKS

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeships are recruiting?
  • Which sponsors operate in my region?
  • Is WIOA assistance available?
  • Is On-the-Job Training available?
  • Which employers are recruiting trainees?
  • Are supportive services available?
  • Are youth apprenticeship or Work-Based Learning programs available?

Step 8 — Contact Your Regional College

Start with the community or technical college serving the area where you want to work.

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors work with this college?
  • Which employers are currently hiring apprentices?
  • Does the college provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?
  • Is pre-apprenticeship available?
  • Are paid Work-Based Learning or co-op opportunities available?
  • Is WIOA funding available?
  • Is the Kansas Promise Scholarship available for related education?

Step 9 — Search Aerospace Employers Directly

If you are in Wichita or interested in aerospace, do not search only apprentice.

Also search:

  • Aircraft assembler
  • Aircraft structures technician
  • Aerospace manufacturing technician
  • Composite technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Avionics technician
  • Electronics technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing trainee

Search:

  • Major aircraft manufacturers
  • Aerospace suppliers
  • Machine shops
  • Component manufacturers
  • Aviation-maintenance employers
  • Engineering companies

Step 10 — Search Other Employers Directly

Search employer career sites for:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Maintenance
  • Operator
  • Machinist
  • Academy
  • Development program
  • Paid training

Important Kansas industries include:

  • Construction
  • Aerospace and aviation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Agriculture
  • Agricultural equipment
  • Food processing
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Transportation and logistics
  • Energy and utilities

Step 11 — Search Public Employers

Include:

  • State of Kansas
  • Counties
  • Cities
  • Kansas Department of Transportation
  • Airports
  • Transit systems
  • Utilities
  • Rural electric cooperatives
  • Water/wastewater systems
  • Public works
  • School systems
  • Public colleges

Search both:

apprentice and trainee

Also search:

  • Technician
  • Operator
  • Mechanic
  • Maintenance

Step 12 — If Nothing Is Open

Do not stop at the first unsuccessful search.

Identify the sponsor and find out when applications reopen.

Meanwhile, investigate:

  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Co-op
  • Employer-paid training
  • Community or technical-college education

Then continue checking the apprenticeship programs you want.

Questions to Ask Before Accepting an Apprenticeship

Ask:

  • Is this a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Who is the sponsor?
  • Which employer will employ me?
  • What occupation am I being trained for?
  • What is the starting wage?
  • How does wage progression work?
  • How is On-the-Job Learning structured?
  • Who will mentor me?
  • Who provides Related Technical Instruction?
  • Who pays for the instruction?
  • How long does the program take?
  • Can I earn college credit?
  • Can the training lead toward a certificate or degree?
  • Do I have to purchase tools?
  • Are there fees?
  • What employee benefits are included?
  • What credential will I receive?
  • What happens after completion?

A strong program should be able to explain the pathway clearly.

=== END KANSAS — PART 4C===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 4D ===

Related Apprenticeship Resource Guides

Use the Apprenticeship.com Resource Guides for additional help understanding, finding, comparing, and preparing for apprenticeship and other earn-and-learn pathways.

  • 🟦 Complete Guide to Apprenticeships
  • 🟦 How to Find an Apprenticeship
  • 🟦 How to Apply for an Apprenticeship
  • 🟦 How to Prepare for an Apprenticeship
  • 🟦 How to Compare Apprenticeship Programs
  • 🟦 How to Evaluate an Apprenticeship
  • 🟦 Apprenticeship Pay & Progressive Wages
  • 🟪 College & Degree Apprenticeships
  • 🟪 College and Apprenticeship — How You Can Do Both
  • 🟨 Youth Apprenticeship Guide
  • 🟧 Pre-Apprenticeship Guide
  • 🟩 Paid Work-Based Learning Guide
  • 🟩 On-the-Job Training Guide
  • 🟩 Co-op / Cooperative Education Guide
  • 🟩 Employer Apprenticeships & Paid Training Programs
  • 🟥 Military & Veteran Apprenticeship Guide
  • 🟥 Apprenticeships for People With Disabilities
  • 🟥 Women in Apprenticeship & Nontraditional Careers
  • 🟥 Apprenticeship & Reentry
  • 🟥 Apprenticeships for Career Changers
  • ⬛ Parents' Guide to Apprenticeship
  • ⬛ School Counselor's Guide to Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship & Earn-and-Learn Glossary

For definitions of apprenticeship and workforce terminology, see the Apprenticeship & Earn-and-Learn Glossary on the Apprenticeship.com Resource Guides page.

The glossary explains terms such as:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Employer / unregistered apprenticeship
  • Apprenticeship sponsor
  • Related Technical Instruction / RTI
  • On-the-Job Learning
  • On-the-Job Training / OJT
  • Work-Based Learning / WBL
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Youth apprenticeship
  • Co-op
  • Progressive wages
  • WIOA
  • American Job Center

Kansas Career Areas to Explore

Use Kansas-specific resources together with the Apprenticeship.com career guides.

👷 Construction & Skilled Trades

Search:

  • Electrician
  • Carpenter
  • Plumber
  • Pipefitter
  • Sheet-metal worker
  • HVAC technician
  • Operating engineer
  • Ironworker
  • Laborer
  • Bricklayer

✈️ Aerospace & Aviation

Search:

  • Aircraft assembler
  • Aircraft structures technician
  • Aviation maintenance technician
  • Aerospace manufacturing technician
  • Composite technician
  • Avionics technician
  • Electronics technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Industrial maintenance technician

🏭 Advanced Manufacturing

Search:

  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Mechatronics technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Tool and die maker
  • Automation technician
  • Robotics technician
  • Electronics technician
  • Maintenance mechanic

🌾 Agriculture & Agricultural Equipment

Search:

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Precision agriculture technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Equipment technician
  • Maintenance mechanic

🥩 Food Processing

Search:

  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Food-production technician
  • Electrical technician
  • Automation technician
  • Process technician
  • Maintenance mechanic

🏥 Healthcare

Search:

  • Medical assistant
  • Nursing apprentice
  • CNA apprentice
  • Pharmacy technician
  • Sterile processing technician
  • Behavioral health technician
  • Community health worker
  • Healthcare apprentice

💻 Information Technology & Cybersecurity

Search:

  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Software developer apprentice
  • Network technician
  • Data analyst apprentice
  • Computer-support specialist
  • Cloud technician

🚚 Transportation & Logistics

Search:

  • Automotive technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Fleet mechanic
  • Heavy-equipment technician
  • Commercial driver apprentice
  • Logistics technician
  • Transportation technician

⚡ Energy & Utilities

Search:

  • Lineworker
  • Utility technician
  • Electrical technician
  • Substation technician
  • Wind technician
  • Instrumentation technician
  • Plant operator
  • Maintenance technician

🚰 Water & Wastewater

Search:

  • Water treatment operator trainee
  • Wastewater treatment operator trainee
  • Water distribution operator
  • Utility technician
  • Maintenance technician

Employers Interested in Registered Apprenticeship

This guide is primarily for career seekers, but Kansas employers can use Registered Apprenticeship to develop skilled workers.

Resources:

Employers can investigate assistance with:

  • Identifying apprenticeable occupations
  • Developing apprenticeship standards
  • Structuring On-the-Job Learning
  • Developing Related Technical Instruction
  • Finding community or technical-college partners
  • Registering a program
  • Recruiting apprentices
  • Expanding an existing program

Employers should also investigate current Kansas and federal apprenticeship and workforce funding.

Funding and eligibility change, so verify current information before making financial decisions.

=== END KANSAS — PART 4D ===
=== BEGIN KANSAS — PART 4E ===

Start Your Kansas Apprenticeship Search

You do not need to know the name of every apprenticeship program in Kansas.

You need to know:

  • What career you want to investigate
  • Where to search
  • Which sponsors operate programs
  • Which employers participate
  • Which community and technical colleges are involved
  • Which local workforce resources can help
  • What questions to ask

Start with Kansas' official Registered Apprenticeship resources.

Then use:

If the apprenticeship you want is not recruiting today, identify the sponsor and find out when it recruits next.

Many established apprenticeship programs recruit periodically rather than continuously.

A closed application today does not necessarily mean the program will not recruit again.

Kansas Search Priorities

Kansas' economy makes several apprenticeship and paid-training searches especially worthwhile.

Depending on where you live, investigate:

  • 👷 Construction and skilled trades
  • ✈️ Aerospace and aviation
  • 🏭 Advanced manufacturing
  • 🌾 Agriculture
  • 🚜 Agricultural equipment
  • 🥩 Food processing
  • 🏥 Healthcare
  • 💻 Information technology and cybersecurity
  • 🚚 Transportation and logistics
  • 🚆 Rail
  • ⚡ Energy and utilities
  • 🌬️ Wind energy
  • 🚰 Water and wastewater

Do not search only the largest employers.

Kansas' aerospace, manufacturing, agriculture, food-processing, and transportation sectors also create opportunities among:

  • Suppliers
  • Machine shops
  • Fabricators
  • Maintenance contractors
  • Aviation-maintenance organizations
  • Refrigeration companies
  • Automation companies
  • Equipment providers
  • Transportation firms
  • Technical-service companies

If You Are Still in High School

Ask your:

  • School counselor
  • CTE instructor
  • Work-Based Learning coordinator
  • Local employer
  • Community or technical college
  • KANSASWORKS workforce center

Ask specifically:

Which employers are currently offering paid youth apprenticeship or Work-Based Learning in this region?

Then determine whether the opportunity is:

  • A Registered Apprenticeship
  • Aligned with Registered Apprenticeship
  • Another paid Work-Based Learning pathway

If You Need Training First

Investigate:

  • 🟧 Pre-apprenticeship
  • 🟩 On-the-Job Training
  • 🟩 Paid Work-Based Learning
  • 🟩 Co-op
  • 🟩 Employer-paid training
  • 🟪 Community or technical-college education
  • 💰 WIOA
  • 💰 Kansas Promise Scholarship where applicable

Do not assume you need to pay substantial tuition before applying to an apprenticeship.

The employer or sponsor may provide or pay for the required training.

Important Information & Disclaimer

This guide is provided for general educational, career-exploration, and informational purposes.

Apprenticeship programs, employers, sponsors, application periods, eligibility requirements, wages, benefits, training requirements, college-credit arrangements, licensing requirements, funding, and other program details can change.

Always confirm current information directly with the apprenticeship sponsor, employer, college, training provider, workforce agency, government agency, licensing authority, or other organization responsible for the program before applying, enrolling, paying fees, purchasing tools, changing employment, relocating, or making financial or career decisions.

Registered Apprenticeship Status

The word apprenticeship does not necessarily mean that a program is a Registered Apprenticeship.

Unless a program is specifically identified as a Registered Apprenticeship through an authoritative state or federal source, verify its registration status.

An employer or unregistered apprenticeship may still provide valuable paid training, but its structure, mentoring, wage progression, instruction, credentials, and other features may differ from Registered Apprenticeship.

Youth Apprenticeship & Work-Based Learning

Youth apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning opportunities are not automatically Registered Apprenticeships.

Before participating, determine:

  • Whether the student is paid
  • Whether the student is an employee
  • Whether the employer operates a Registered Apprenticeship
  • Whether the pathway is aligned with Registered Apprenticeship
  • What occupational skills will be learned
  • What credentials can be earned
  • Whether college credit is available
  • Whether employment can continue after high school

Pre-Apprenticeship

Pre-apprenticeship is not the same as Registered Apprenticeship.

Pre-apprenticeship may be:

  • Paid
  • Stipend-supported
  • Unpaid

Before enrolling, confirm:

  • Program cost
  • Wages or stipends
  • Credentials earned
  • Employer participation
  • Connections with Registered Apprenticeship
  • Whether completion provides advanced standing or preferred consideration
  • What paid opportunity may follow

Be cautious about paying substantial tuition solely for the opportunity to later apply for an apprenticeship.

Program Availability

A program, sponsor, employer, college, union, training provider, or organization appearing in this guide does not mean that it is currently accepting applications or hiring apprentices.

Recruiting periods and available positions change.

Being listed does not guarantee:

  • Current availability
  • Eligibility
  • Admission
  • Selection
  • Employment
  • Funding
  • College credit
  • Licensing eligibility
  • Successful completion

Contact the responsible organization for current requirements.

Interstate Apprenticeship

Kansas residents in border regions may find apprenticeship opportunities in:

  • Missouri
  • Nebraska
  • Oklahoma
  • Colorado

The Kansas City metropolitan area is especially important because its labor market crosses the Kansas-Missouri border.

Before accepting an out-of-state apprenticeship, verify:

  • Where the apprenticeship is registered
  • Where the paid employment occurs
  • Where Related Technical Instruction occurs
  • Whether occupational licensing is required
  • Whether apprenticeship hours or credentials will be recognized in Kansas
  • Whether additional Kansas requirements apply

Do not assume apprenticeship requirements or occupational licenses transfer automatically across state lines.

Funding & Financial Assistance

WIOA, Kansas Promise Scholarship, financial aid, employer tuition support, grants, supportive services, and other assistance have separate eligibility requirements.

A program's eligibility for funding does not guarantee that an individual will qualify.

Confirm:

  • Current eligibility
  • Covered expenses
  • Remaining costs
  • Application deadlines
  • Any service obligations
  • Whether funding must be approved before training begins

Occupational Licensing

Some Kansas occupations require state or local licenses, certifications, examinations, or other credentials.

Registered Apprenticeship completion does not automatically guarantee every occupational license.

Verify licensing requirements separately with the appropriate licensing authority.

External Links

This guide includes links to government agencies, colleges, training organizations, employers, apprenticeship sponsors, workforce organizations, nonprofit organizations, and other third-party resources.

Links are provided for informational and research purposes.

Apprenticeship.com does not control third-party websites and is not responsible for their content, accuracy, availability, security, privacy practices, application processes, program changes, or services.

A link or listing does not necessarily constitute an endorsement, recommendation, partnership, sponsorship, or guarantee by Apprenticeship.com.

External websites may change or remove pages without notice.

If you find a broken or outdated link, please report it so the resource can be reviewed.

No Legal, Financial, or Professional Advice

Nothing in this guide constitutes legal, financial, tax, educational, licensing, employment, or other professional advice.

Laws, licensing requirements, employment requirements, apprenticeship standards, and individual circumstances vary.

For advice concerning your specific circumstances, consult the appropriate qualified professional, government agency, apprenticeship sponsor, employer, college, licensing authority, or workforce organization.

Verify Before You Decide

Before making an important career, education, employment, or financial decision:

  • Verify the information with the organization responsible for the program.
  • Confirm that applications are currently being accepted.
  • Confirm wages, benefits, costs, and training requirements.
  • Confirm whether the apprenticeship is registered.
  • Confirm whether a youth apprenticeship is registered or aligned with Registered Apprenticeship.
  • Confirm occupational licensing requirements when applicable.
  • Confirm any college-credit or credential claims.
  • Confirm whether out-of-state apprenticeship training will be recognized when applicable.
  • Confirm eligibility for WIOA, Kansas Promise Scholarship, financial aid, supportive services, or veterans benefits.

Programs, links, funding, licensing requirements, and other information can change after the verification date.

=== END KANSAS — PART 4E / END OF KANSAS GUIDE ===