Minnesota Apprenticeship Programs

Minnesota Apprenticeship Programs

Minnesota Apprenticeship Programs

Minnesota Apprenticeship Resource Guide

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

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 Minnesota 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.

Minnesota has a strong apprenticeship tradition in construction and skilled trades, while apprenticeship and other earn-and-learn approaches can also support workforce development in industries such as:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Agriculture and food production
  • Education
  • Public-sector occupations
  • Other skilled careers

Minnesota Career Areas to Investigate

Recommended searches include:

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • Pipefitter apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Carpenter apprentice
  • Operating engineer apprentice
  • Millwright apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Medical assistant apprentice
  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Automotive technician apprentice
  • Diesel technician apprentice
  • Lineworker apprentice

Minnesota's Manufacturing Economy

Minnesota's manufacturing base includes:

  • Medical devices
  • Precision manufacturing
  • Food production
  • Machinery
  • Electronics
  • Aerospace and defense suppliers
  • Metal fabrication
  • Industrial equipment

Career seekers should search both major employers and smaller supplier companies.

Useful searches include:

  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Automation technician
  • Toolmaker apprentice
  • Welder apprentice
  • Maintenance mechanic apprentice

How This Guide Is Organized

Use the sections that match what you need.

  • 🟦 Registered Apprenticeship — Minnesota apprenticeship resources, sponsors, Apprenticeship.com, Apprenticeship.gov, and ways to find opportunities.
  • 🟪 Community & Technical College Apprenticeship — Minnesota State colleges, Related Technical Instruction, employer partnerships, college credit, certificates, and degrees.
  • 🟨 Youth & School-to-Career Pathways — Youth Skills Training, CTE, Work-Based Learning, youth apprenticeship, 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, joint apprenticeship programs, industry organizations, intermediaries, and established apprenticeship programs.
  • 🏭 Advanced Manufacturing — machining, industrial maintenance, mechatronics, automation, medical-device manufacturing, and related careers.
  • 🏥 Healthcare — healthcare apprenticeship and employer-paid training pathways.
  • 🌾 Agriculture & Food Production — agricultural equipment, food manufacturing, maintenance, and related technical careers.
  • 🏛️ Government & Public-Sector Resources — state and local government, transportation, utilities, education, and public employers.
  • 📍 Regional & Local Resources — Twin Cities, Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud, Mankato, Northwest Minnesota, Southwest Minnesota, and rural communities.
  • 🟥 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, manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, transportation, government, and utilities.

=== END MINNESOTA — PART 1A ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — PART 1B ===

🟩 Best Places to Start

Minnesota career seekers should use the state's apprenticeship system, CareerForce, federal apprenticeship tools, community and technical colleges, apprenticeship sponsors, unions, industry organizations, and employer career sites together.

Do not rely on only one search source.

🟦 Apprenticeship Minnesota

Apprenticeship Minnesota within the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry is the state's central Registered Apprenticeship resource.

Use Apprenticeship Minnesota to investigate:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Apprentice occupations
  • Program standards
  • Employer programs
  • Apprenticeship expansion
  • Current apprenticeship resources

🟦 Find Minnesota Apprenticeship Sponsors

Do not limit your search to current job advertisements.

Use:

Once you identify a sponsor:

  • Visit its website.
  • Determine which occupations it trains.
  • Check application periods.
  • Ask whether it recruits continuously or periodically.
  • Find out when the next apprentice class begins.

⬛ Apprenticeship.com

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

Search by:

  • Occupation
  • Minnesota
  • 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.

⬛ CareerForce Minnesota

CareerForce provides workforce and employment services throughout Minnesota.

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeships are recruiting?
  • Which sponsors operate in my region?
  • Which employers offer paid training?
  • Is WIOA assistance available?
  • Is On-the-Job Training available?
  • Are supportive services available?
  • Are pre-apprenticeship programs available?

⬛ MinnesotaWorks.net

MinnesotaWorks.net is Minnesota's public employment-search resource.

Search:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Medical assistant trainee
  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Automotive technician trainee
  • Diesel technician trainee
  • Utility trainee
  • Paid training

🟪 Minnesota State Colleges & Universities

Minnesota State's community and technical colleges are important apprenticeship and workforce-training partners.

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors currently work with the college?
  • Which employers are hiring apprentices?
  • Does the college provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?
  • Can apprenticeship lead toward a certificate, diploma, or degree?
  • Are employer-sponsored apprenticeship classes available?

🟨 Youth Skills Training

Minnesota's Youth Skills Training program helps schools and employers create work-based learning opportunities for students in high-demand occupations.

Youth Skills Training is an important pathway to investigate, but it should not automatically be described as Registered Apprenticeship.

Students and families should ask:

  • Is the position paid?
  • Which employer participates?
  • What occupation will the student learn?
  • Does the employer operate a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Can the pathway lead into apprenticeship after graduation?

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 technical or community college.
  • Ask CareerForce.
  • Ask when applications reopen.

Start With the Paid Job

Remember:

A college may provide the education.

CareerForce 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?

=== END MINNESOTA — PART 1B ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — PART 1C ===

🟪 Minnesota Community & Technical Colleges and Apprenticeship

Minnesota's community and technical colleges can play several important roles in apprenticeship.

Depending on the program, a college may:

  • Provide Related Technical Instruction
  • Partner with Registered Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Work directly with employers
  • Help employers develop training
  • Provide technical laboratories and instruction
  • Award college credit where applicable
  • Connect apprenticeship with certificates, diplomas, or degrees
  • Support pre-apprenticeship
  • Offer paid Work-Based Learning or co-op
  • Help career seekers connect with employers

An important distinction:

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

A college may provide the education connected with that job.

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

🟪 Verified Apprenticeship College vs. Other College Resources

When researching Minnesota colleges, distinguish between:

Verified apprenticeship / RTI college — the college has a documented role supporting one or more apprenticeship programs, sponsors, or Related Technical Instruction pathways.

Other college resource — the college provides relevant technical education, workforce programs, career services, co-op, or employer connections, but a specific apprenticeship relationship should be verified before describing the college as an apprenticeship provider.

This distinction matters because:

technical education ≠ apprenticeship

Always ask:

Which employer or sponsor provides the paid job?

🟪 Minnesota State

Minnesota State operates colleges throughout the state and is an important technical and workforce-education system.

Career areas can include:

  • Construction
  • Electrical technology
  • Plumbing and HVAC
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • CNC machining
  • Welding
  • Mechatronics
  • Automation
  • Automotive
  • Diesel technology
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Agriculture
  • Transportation
  • Energy
  • Other skilled occupations

Ask the college serving your region about current employer and Registered Apprenticeship relationships, not only academic programs.

🟪 Hennepin Technical College

Hennepin Technical College serves the Twin Cities region and provides technical education aligned with many apprenticeship occupations.

Career seekers should investigate employer-connected pathways in:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • CNC and machining
  • Automation and robotics
  • Electronics
  • Welding
  • Construction
  • HVAC
  • Automotive
  • Information technology

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors currently use Hennepin Tech for instruction?
  • Which employers are hiring apprentices?
  • Does the college provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?

Status: Strong technical/workforce resource — verify the specific apprenticeship sponsor and current recruiting.

🟪 Dakota County Technical College

Dakota County Technical College — DCTC — serves the southeastern Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Automotive
  • Diesel
  • Transportation
  • Construction
  • Information technology
  • Welding
  • Industrial technology

Ask about current apprenticeship sponsors, employer partnerships, and Related Technical Instruction.

🟪 Saint Paul College

Saint Paul College provides technical and workforce education in the Twin Cities.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Construction trades
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • HVAC
  • Welding
  • Manufacturing
  • Automotive
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology

Ask which apprenticeship sponsors currently work with the college.

🟪 Minneapolis College

Minneapolis College serves Minneapolis and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Ask about employer-connected pathways in:

  • Information technology
  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Construction-related occupations
  • Technical education
  • Workforce training

🟪 Anoka Technical College

Anoka Technical College serves the northern Twin Cities metropolitan region.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Manufacturing
  • CNC machining
  • Welding
  • Automotive
  • Construction
  • Electrical
  • Information technology
  • Healthcare

Ask about current employer-sponsored apprenticeship education.

🟪 Century College

Century College serves the eastern Twin Cities metropolitan region.

Ask about:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Engineering technology
  • Automotive
  • Information technology
  • Healthcare
  • Skilled technical programs
  • Employer partnerships

🟪 South Central College

South Central College serves Mankato, Faribault, and surrounding southern Minnesota communities.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Mechatronics
  • Machining
  • Welding
  • Agriculture
  • Transportation
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology

Ask which local employers sponsor apprentices and whether the college provides RTI.

🟪 Minnesota State College Southeast

Minnesota State College Southeast serves southeastern Minnesota.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • CNC machining
  • Welding
  • Electronics
  • Transportation
  • Construction-related education
  • Other technical occupations

🟪 Rochester Community and Technical College

Rochester Community and Technical College — RCTC — serves Rochester and southeastern Minnesota.

  • 🟪 Rochester Community and Technical College — Explore RCTC

Ask about employer-connected pathways in:

  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Skilled technical occupations
  • Workforce training

Because Rochester has a large healthcare economy, ask specifically about healthcare apprenticeship and employer-paid training.

🟪 Riverland Community College

Riverland Community College serves southeastern Minnesota.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Welding
  • Automotive
  • Construction
  • Agriculture
  • Healthcare
  • Employer-connected training

🟪 St. Cloud Technical & Community College

St. Cloud Technical & Community College — SCTCC — serves Central Minnesota.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • CNC machining
  • Welding
  • Electrical
  • Construction
  • Automotive
  • Diesel
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology

Ask about current Registered Apprenticeship sponsors and employer-paid training relationships.

🟪 Central Lakes College

Central Lakes College serves Brainerd, Staples, and Central Minnesota.

Ask about:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Welding
  • Heavy equipment
  • Agriculture
  • Healthcare
  • Transportation
  • Skilled technical pathways

🟪 Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Minnesota State Community and Technical College — M State — serves multiple communities in western and northwestern Minnesota.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Manufacturing
  • Electrical
  • Construction
  • Automotive
  • Diesel
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Employer-connected workforce programs

🟪 Northland Community & Technical College

Northland Community & Technical College serves northwestern Minnesota.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Aviation
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Automotive
  • Welding
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology

🟪 Lake Superior College

Lake Superior College serves Duluth and northeastern Minnesota.

Career seekers should investigate:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Welding
  • Transportation
  • Aviation
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Energy-related occupations

🟪 Ridgewater College

Ridgewater College serves west-central Minnesota.

Ask about employer-connected pathways in:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Agriculture
  • Automotive
  • Welding
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Skilled technical fields

🟪 Questions to Ask a Minnesota College

Do not ask only:

“Do you have apprenticeships?”

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors do you currently work with?
  • Which employers are currently hiring apprentices?
  • Which apprenticeship occupations are supported?
  • Does the college provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Do I apply to the employer or college first?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?
  • Can apprenticeship lead toward a certificate, diploma, or degree?
  • Is pre-apprenticeship available?
  • Are paid Work-Based Learning or co-op opportunities available?
  • Can you connect me with an apprenticeship sponsor?
  • Is workforce funding available?

🟪 College Credit & Apprenticeship

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

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

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

Ask:

  • Does apprenticeship instruction carry college credit?
  • Can apprenticeship experience count toward a college credential?
  • Can industry credentials receive college credit?
  • Can I continue toward a higher credential after apprenticeship?
  • Does the employer or sponsor pay tuition?
=== END MINNESOTA — PART 1C ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — PART 1D ===

🟨 Minnesota Youth Apprenticeship & Career Preparation

Minnesota students can begin preparing for apprenticeship and skilled careers through Youth Skills Training, Career and Technical Education, Work-Based Learning, community and technical college pathways, pre-apprenticeship, and employer partnerships.

Start with:

🟨 Youth Skills Training

Minnesota's Youth Skills Training — YST — program helps schools and employers create safe, structured work experiences for students in high-demand industries and occupations.

Depending on the local program, students may gain:

  • Paid work experience
  • Occupational skills
  • Employer connections
  • Career exploration
  • Technical education
  • Preparation for employment after high school

Youth Skills Training is not automatically Registered Apprenticeship.

Students, parents, and counselors should ask:

  • Is the position paid?
  • Will the student be an employee?
  • Which employer participates?
  • What occupation will the student learn?
  • What skills will the student develop?
  • Is the employer a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor?
  • Can the experience lead into Registered Apprenticeship after graduation?
  • Can the student earn school or college credit?

🟨 Career & Technical Education

Minnesota Career and Technical Education can help students prepare for skilled employment, apprenticeship, and postsecondary technical education.

Career areas can include:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Automotive
  • Agriculture
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Engineering and technology
  • Other skilled occupations

CTE can provide preparation for:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Community or technical college
  • Industry credentials
  • Skilled employment

CTE itself is not automatically apprenticeship.

🟨 Work-Based Learning

Minnesota schools, colleges, workforce organizations, and employers may offer Work-Based Learning.

Depending on the program, students may participate in:

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

Work-Based Learning is not automatically Registered 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 apprenticeship after graduation?

🟨 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 Skills Training
  • Youth apprenticeship
  • Career and Technical Education
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Community and technical college education

Ask:

  • Is the student an employee?
  • Is the opportunity paid?
  • Is it a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Is the employer a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor?
  • Does the pathway lead into 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?

🟧 Minnesota Pre-Apprenticeship

Pre-apprenticeship can help career seekers prepare for entry into Registered Apprenticeship and skilled employment.

It is not Registered Apprenticeship.

A pre-apprenticeship may provide:

  • Career exploration
  • Occupational preparation
  • Skilled-trades math
  • 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?
  • Which employers or unions recruit participants?
  • What occupation does the program prepare me for?
  • What credential will I earn?
  • Does completion provide preferred consideration, direct entry, or advanced standing where applicable?
  • What paid opportunity can follow?

🟧 Construction Apprenticeship Readiness

Career seekers interested in Minnesota construction should investigate preparation programs connected directly with established building-trades sponsors.

Preparation may include:

  • Construction math
  • Safety
  • Tools
  • Workplace readiness
  • Physical preparation
  • Industry terminology
  • Interview preparation
  • Apprenticeship application assistance

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors recognize the program?
  • Which unions or contractors recruit graduates?
  • Is the program free?
  • Is a stipend available?
  • Are tools or transportation assistance available?
  • What paid opportunity follows?

🟧 Manufacturing Apprenticeship Readiness

Minnesota career seekers interested in manufacturing should look for preparation connected with actual employers and sponsors.

Training may include:

  • Manufacturing math
  • Blueprint reading
  • Precision measurement
  • Safety
  • Machining fundamentals
  • Industrial technology
  • Workplace readiness

Ask:

  • Which manufacturers recruit participants?
  • Which Registered Apprenticeships recognize the training?
  • Is the training free?
  • Is there a stipend?
  • What paid job follows?

🟧 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.

=== END MINNESOTA — PART 1D ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — PART 2A ===

👷 Minnesota 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 & Building Trades

Construction is one of Minnesota's most established apprenticeship sectors.

Search:

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Carpenter apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • Pipefitter apprentice
  • Steamfitter apprentice
  • Sheet-metal apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Operating engineer apprentice
  • Ironworker apprentice
  • Laborer apprentice
  • Millwright apprentice
  • Boilermaker apprentice
  • Sprinkler fitter apprentice
  • Insulator apprentice
  • Painter apprentice
  • Bricklayer apprentice
  • Other building trades

Use:

👷 Union & Joint Apprenticeship Programs

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

Search for programs in:

  • Electrical
  • Carpentry
  • Plumbing
  • Pipefitting and steamfitting
  • Sheet metal
  • Operating engineering
  • Ironwork
  • Laborers
  • Millwright work
  • Boilermaking
  • Sprinkler fitting
  • Insulation
  • Painting and finishing
  • Bricklaying
  • Other skilled 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.

👷 Search the Correct Geographic Jurisdiction

Minnesota construction apprenticeship programs may serve specific geographic areas.

A Twin Cities sponsor may have different recruiting procedures and work territory from a sponsor serving Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, Mankato, or another part of the state.

Ask:

  • Which counties does the program serve?
  • Where will apprentices work?
  • Where is technical instruction?
  • How much travel is required?
  • Does the sponsor recruit statewide or regionally?

🏗️ Search Both Union & Nonunion Sponsors

Career seekers should investigate different sponsor structures, including:

  • Joint labor-management apprenticeship programs
  • Union apprenticeship programs
  • Individual contractors
  • Contractor associations
  • Employer groups
  • Other Registered Apprenticeship sponsors

Do not assume there is only one pathway into an occupation.

Compare:

  • Entry requirements
  • Recruiting periods
  • Wages
  • Benefits
  • Related Technical Instruction
  • Geographic work area
  • Completion credential

🏭 Advanced Manufacturing

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

  • CNC machining
  • Precision manufacturing
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Mechatronics
  • Automation
  • Robotics
  • Toolmaking
  • Welding
  • Electronics
  • Production technology
  • Quality

Recommended searches:

  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Machinist apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Toolmaker apprentice
  • Automation technician
  • Robotics technician
  • Electronics technician
  • Maintenance mechanic apprentice

🏭 Medical-Device Manufacturing

Minnesota's medical-device and healthcare-technology industries create technical manufacturing pathways.

Search:

  • Manufacturing technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Precision machinist
  • Equipment technician
  • Maintenance technician
  • Automation technician
  • Quality technician
  • Production technician

Not every medical-device training pathway is a Registered Apprenticeship.

Ask:

  • Is this paid employment?
  • Is training provided after hiring?
  • Is this a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Does the employer pay for technical education?
  • Can training earn college credit?
  • What permanent career pathway follows?

🛠️ Industrial Maintenance & Mechatronics

Modern Minnesota manufacturing facilities need workers who can maintain complex production equipment.

Search:

  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Maintenance mechanic apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Electromechanical technician
  • Automation technician
  • Controls technician
  • Maintenance technician trainee

Training may involve:

  • Mechanical systems
  • Electrical systems
  • Hydraulics
  • Pneumatics
  • Controls
  • Robotics
  • Automation
  • Troubleshooting
=== END MINNESOTA — PART 2A ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — PART 2B ===

🏥 Healthcare Apprenticeship

Minnesota's large healthcare sector creates opportunities for apprenticeship and other employer-paid training.

Career areas can include:

  • Medical assisting
  • Nursing support
  • Pharmacy
  • Sterile processing
  • Behavioral health
  • Community health
  • Direct support
  • Other healthcare occupations

Recommended searches:

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

Ask:

  • Is the program a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Which healthcare 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?
  • Does the employer pay education or certification costs?

🏥 Search Healthcare Employers Directly

Do not search only apprenticeship databases.

Also search:

  • Hospitals
  • Health systems
  • Clinics
  • Long-term-care employers
  • Behavioral-health organizations
  • Home-health employers
  • Disability-service providers
  • Pharmacies

Use terms such as:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Earn and learn
  • Paid training
  • Medical assistant trainee
  • CNA training
  • Pharmacy technician trainee
  • Sterile processing trainee

Some employer-paid healthcare training programs may not be Registered Apprenticeships.

Verify the specific pathway.

💻 Information Technology & Cybersecurity

Technology apprenticeship can provide pathways into:

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

Recommended searches:

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

Search:

  • Apprenticeship Minnesota
  • Apprenticeship.gov
  • Apprenticeship.com
  • MinnesotaWorks.net
  • Minnesota State colleges
  • Employer career sites

🌾 Agriculture & Food Production

Minnesota's agriculture and food economy creates skilled technical career pathways beyond farm labor.

Career areas can include:

  • Agricultural equipment
  • Diesel technology
  • Food manufacturing
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Automation
  • Electrical systems
  • Refrigeration
  • Process technology
  • Transportation

Search:

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician apprentice
  • Food manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Maintenance mechanic
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Process technician
  • Automation technician

🏭 Food Manufacturing

Minnesota food processors need workers to maintain production, packaging, refrigeration, electrical, and automated systems.

Search:

  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Maintenance technician trainee
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Electrical technician
  • Automation technician
  • Process technician
  • Manufacturing technician

A production or maintenance trainee program is not automatically Registered Apprenticeship.

Verify the specific pathway.

🚚 Transportation & Logistics

Minnesota's highways, freight networks, distribution centers, agricultural economy, and manufacturing sector create substantial transportation demand.

Search:

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

Check:

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

✈️ Aviation

Minnesota aviation employers can provide technical pathways in:

  • Aircraft maintenance
  • Avionics
  • Ground equipment
  • Airport operations
  • Facilities

Search:

  • Aviation maintenance technician
  • Aircraft mechanic apprentice
  • Avionics technician
  • Ground-equipment technician
  • Facilities technician

Not every aviation training pathway is a Registered Apprenticeship.

Verify the specific program.

⚡ Energy & Utilities

Minnesota utilities and energy employers provide technical career pathways.

Search:

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

Some utility programs may be Registered Apprenticeships.

Others may be employer-designed apprenticeships or trainee programs.

Verify the specific pathway.

🌱 Renewable Energy

Minnesota's wind, solar, bioenergy, and energy-efficiency industries create additional technical career pathways.

Search:

  • Wind technician
  • Solar installer
  • Renewable-energy technician
  • Electrical technician
  • Maintenance technician
  • Energy-efficiency technician

Before paying for specialized training, ask:

  • Which employers hire graduates?
  • Is employer-paid training available?
  • Is there a Registered Apprenticeship pathway?
  • Can workforce funding cover training?
  • What occupational credential does the program provide?

🚰 Water & Wastewater

Minnesota 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
  • Regional authorities
  • Utilities
  • Public works departments

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?
=== END MINNESOTA — PART 2B ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — PART 2C ===

🏛️ Minnesota 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 Minnesota Careers

Minnesota state government employs workers across technical, skilled, healthcare, administrative, environmental, and professional occupations.

Search career areas such as:

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

Also search:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Operator
  • Mechanic

🚧 Minnesota Department of Transportation

Minnesota Department of Transportation — MnDOT — employs workers in transportation, highway maintenance, equipment, engineering, and technical occupations.

Recommended searches:

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

🚌 Metro Transit & Public Transportation

Public transportation employers can provide technical careers in:

  • Bus maintenance
  • Rail maintenance
  • Fleet maintenance
  • Diesel technology
  • Electrical systems
  • Facilities
  • Signals
  • Transportation operations
  • 🚌 Metro Transit Careers — Explore Metro Transit Employment

Search:

  • Mechanic
  • Technician
  • Trainee
  • Apprentice
  • Rail
  • Bus maintenance
  • Electrical
  • Facilities

Determine whether a specific apprentice or trainee pathway is a Registered Apprenticeship.

🏙️ Cities, Counties & Public Agencies

Minnesota cities, counties, utilities, public works departments, transit organizations, water systems, 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

Minnesota school districts, Minnesota State colleges, universities, and other education organizations employ technical workers in:

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

Education itself can also provide apprenticeship pathways.

Search:

  • Teacher apprentice
  • Paraprofessional apprentice
  • Early-childhood educator apprentice
  • Child-care apprentice

Verify whether a specific program is a Registered Apprenticeship.

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

🟥 Veterans & Transitioning Service Members

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

Minnesota's advanced-manufacturing, healthcare, construction, technology, transportation, agriculture, aviation, and utility sectors can provide civilian pathways for military experience.

Career pathways can include:

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

🟥 Minnesota 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.

Minnesota career areas to investigate include:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Medical-device manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Transportation and logistics
  • Aviation
  • Energy and 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?

🟥 Minnesota Military & Defense-Connected Careers

Veterans should also investigate Minnesota employers in:

  • Aerospace
  • Defense manufacturing
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Electronics
  • Precision machining
  • Information technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Logistics
  • Aviation
  • Facilities
  • Transportation

Search both:

  • Apprentice
  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • Development program
  • Paid training

A military occupational specialty may provide useful experience even when the civilian pathway is not specifically designated for veterans.

🟥 Helmets to Hardhats

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

=== END MINNESOTA — PART 2D ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — PART 2E ===

🟥 People With Disabilities

Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation Services can help eligible people with disabilities prepare for, obtain, maintain, and advance in employment.

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Occupational training
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Career counseling
  • Postsecondary education
  • Employer connections
  • Assistive technology
  • Workplace accommodations
  • Job placement

🟥 Students & Youth With Disabilities

Students and families should ask about:

  • Pre-employment transition services
  • Career exploration
  • Youth Skills Training
  • Work-Based Learning
  • Career and Technical Education
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Youth apprenticeship
  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Minnesota State education
  • Paid employment

Ask whether apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship can be incorporated into the student's employment plan.

🟥 Women in Apprenticeship & Nontraditional Careers

Women interested in occupations where women have historically been underrepresented should investigate:

  • Construction
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Pipefitting
  • HVAC
  • Sheet metal
  • Welding
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • CNC machining
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Information technology

Resources:

Minnesota also has organizations and apprenticeship-readiness initiatives focused on increasing access to construction and other nontraditional occupations.

Verify current program availability, recruiting, funding, and sponsor relationships directly.

🟥 Reentry & Justice-Impacted Career Seekers

A previous conviction does not automatically make every apprenticeship or skilled occupation unavailable.

Requirements vary by:

  • Employer
  • Occupation
  • Licensing requirements
  • Worksite
  • Apprenticeship sponsor

Start with:

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • WIOA
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Occupational training
  • Employer connections
  • Supportive services

If an occupation requires a professional or occupational license, check licensing requirements separately.

🟥 Opportunity Youth

Young adults who are not currently connected to school or employment should investigate:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Youth apprenticeship
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • WIOA youth programs
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Career and Technical Education
  • Minnesota State programs
  • Employer-paid training

Start with:

🟥 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 and technical college education
  • Employer-paid training

Resources:

🟥 English Learners & Immigrant Career Seekers

Minnesota's workforce includes many immigrant and multilingual communities.

Career seekers should ask CareerForce, Minnesota State colleges, adult-education providers, pre-apprenticeship programs, and apprenticeship sponsors about:

  • English-language support
  • Vocational English
  • Occupational training
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Credential evaluation
  • Employer connections
  • Supportive services

Ask whether English-language instruction can be combined with technical or apprenticeship-readiness training.

🟥 Rural Minnesota Career Seekers

Apprenticeship is not limited to Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Career seekers in Greater Minnesota should investigate:

  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Agriculture and food production
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Automotive and diesel
  • Energy
  • Public works

Ask:

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

CareerForce and Minnesota State colleges can be particularly valuable regional contacts.

How Specialized Resources Fit Into Your Search

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

Use both:

Main search resources

  • Apprenticeship Minnesota
  • Apprenticeship.com
  • Apprenticeship.gov Job Finder
  • Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder
  • CareerForce Minnesota
  • MinnesotaWorks.net
  • Minnesota State colleges
  • Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Employer career sites

Specialized resources

  • Youth Skills Training
  • Veterans services
  • SkillBridge
  • Vocational Rehabilitation
  • Youth workforce programs
  • Pre-apprenticeship
  • Reentry resources
  • WIOA
  • Language and adult-education services
  • Other population-specific assistance

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

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

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

📍 Minnesota Regional & Local Resources

Minnesota's apprenticeship and earn-and-learn opportunities vary considerably by region.

Use statewide apprenticeship resources together with CareerForce, MinnesotaWorks.net, Minnesota State colleges, apprenticeship sponsors, unions, industry organizations, public employers, 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.

📍 Minneapolis, St. Paul & Twin Cities Metro

The Twin Cities region has Minnesota's largest and most diverse employment market.

Priority Industries

  • Construction and skilled trades
  • Healthcare
  • Medical-device manufacturing
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Information technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Transportation and transit
  • Utilities
  • Public-sector employment

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Plumber apprentice
  • Pipefitter apprentice
  • Steamfitter apprentice
  • Carpenter apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Operating engineer apprentice
  • Millwright apprentice
  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Medical-device manufacturing technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Medical assistant apprentice
  • IT apprentice
  • Cybersecurity apprentice
  • Transit mechanic
  • Diesel technician
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

Search building-trades sponsors, healthcare systems, medical-device manufacturers, precision manufacturers, technology companies, utilities, transportation employers, and public agencies directly.

📍 Twin Cities Manufacturing Corridors

Manufacturing opportunities extend well beyond Minneapolis and St. Paul themselves.

Career seekers should investigate employers throughout:

  • Hennepin County
  • Ramsey County
  • Dakota County
  • Anoka County
  • Washington County
  • Scott County
  • Carver County

Recommended Manufacturing Searches

  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Machinist apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Automation technician
  • Robotics technician
  • Toolmaker apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Quality technician
  • Maintenance mechanic

Do not search only major corporations.

Also investigate:

  • Precision machine shops
  • Medical-device suppliers
  • Metal fabricators
  • Electronics manufacturers
  • Automation companies
  • Industrial-equipment companies
  • Food manufacturers

📍 Rochester & Southeast Minnesota

Rochester has a major healthcare economy supported by manufacturing, technology, construction, transportation, and regional service employers.

Priority Industries

  • Healthcare
  • Medical technology
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Information technology
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Medical assistant apprentice
  • Pharmacy technician apprentice
  • Sterile processing technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • IT apprentice
  • Electrician apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Automotive technician
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

Search healthcare employers directly for both Registered Apprenticeship and employer-paid training.

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

📍 Duluth & Northeast Minnesota

Duluth and Northeast Minnesota combine healthcare, construction, transportation, aviation, manufacturing, utilities, mining-related industries, and public-sector employment.

Priority Industries

  • Healthcare
  • Construction and skilled trades
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Mining-related industries
  • Transportation
  • Aviation
  • Energy and utilities
  • Public-sector employment

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Electrician apprentice
  • Millwright apprentice
  • Operating engineer apprentice
  • HVAC apprentice
  • Welder apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Heavy-equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Aviation maintenance technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Direct Local Resources

Search mining-related suppliers and contractors as well as major employers.

Technical opportunities can exist with:

  • Equipment companies
  • Maintenance contractors
  • Fabricators
  • Transportation employers
  • Utilities
  • Engineering-service companies

📍 St. Cloud & Central Minnesota

Priority Industries

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Agriculture and food production
  • Information technology
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

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

Direct Local Resources

📍 Mankato & South-Central Minnesota

Priority Industries

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

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Manufacturing technician
  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Automation technician
  • Food manufacturing technician
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

📍 Austin, Albert Lea & Southern Minnesota

Southern Minnesota has important food-processing, manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, transportation, and construction employers.

Priority Industries

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

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Process technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Automation technician
  • Welder
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Electrician apprentice
  • Utility technician

Direct Local Resources

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

📍 Northwest Minnesota

Northwest Minnesota's economy includes agriculture, food production, manufacturing, healthcare, aviation, construction, transportation, and utilities.

Priority Industries

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

Recommended Occupations to Search

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

Direct Local Resources

📍 West-Central Minnesota

Priority Industries

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

Recommended Occupations to Search

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

Direct Local Resources

📍 Southwest Minnesota

Priority Industries

  • Agriculture
  • Food manufacturing
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Renewable energy
  • Utilities

Recommended Occupations to Search

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Food manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Wind technician
  • Electrician apprentice
  • Diesel technician
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Utility technician
  • Water/wastewater operator

Search:

  • CareerForce
  • MinnesotaWorks.net
  • Regional Minnesota State colleges
  • Manufacturers
  • Food processors
  • Agricultural equipment employers
  • Utilities
  • Renewable-energy employers
  • Healthcare systems
  • Construction sponsors

📍 Rural Minnesota

Do not assume apprenticeship exists only in the Twin Cities.

Rural Minnesota employers need skilled workers in:

  • Healthcare
  • Construction
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Agriculture
  • Food production
  • Transportation
  • Utilities
  • Automotive and diesel
  • Renewable energy
  • Public infrastructure

If you live in a smaller community:

  • 🟦 Search Apprenticeship Minnesota.
  • 🟦 Search Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder.
  • ⬛ Search Apprenticeship.com.
  • ⬛ Contact CareerForce.
  • ⬛ Search MinnesotaWorks.net.
  • 🟪 Contact the nearest Minnesota State college.
  • 🟨 Ask about Youth Skills Training and Work-Based Learning.
  • 👷 Search union and industry apprenticeship sponsors.
  • 🏛️ Search local government.
  • 🚰 Search water/wastewater systems.
  • ⚡ Search utilities and electric cooperatives.
  • 🏥 Search healthcare employers.
  • 🏭 Search manufacturers.
  • 🌾 Search agricultural and food-production employers.
  • 🚚 Search transportation employers.

Expand into neighboring counties when commuting is realistic.

Minnesota Regional Search Checklist

For the region where you want to work, check:

  • 🟦 Apprenticeship Minnesota
  • ⬛ Apprenticeship.com
  • 🟦 Apprenticeship.gov Job Finder
  • 🟦 Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder
  • ⬛ CareerForce Minnesota
  • ⬛ MinnesotaWorks.net
  • 🟪 Regional Minnesota State college
  • 🟨 Youth Skills Training, CTE, and Work-Based Learning
  • 🟧 Pre-apprenticeship
  • 👷 Union and apprenticeship sponsors
  • 🏛️ State and local government
  • 🚧 MnDOT
  • 🚌 Transit employers
  • 🚰 Water/wastewater systems
  • ⚡ Utilities
  • 🏥 Healthcare employers
  • 🏭 Manufacturers
  • 🌾 Agriculture and food-production employers
  • 🚚 Transportation employers
  • ✈️ Aviation 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:

  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Machinist apprentice
  • Machinist trainee
  • CNC operator trainee
  • Precision manufacturing trainee

Or:

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

Then add:

  • Your city
  • Your county
  • Your region
  • Minnesota

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 MINNESOTA — PART 3C ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — 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 Minnesota 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.

🟩 Minnesota 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
  • Youth Skills Training
  • Minnesota State 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

Minnesota 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.

Minnesota employers may recruit using titles such as:

  • CNC machinist trainee
  • Manufacturing technician trainee
  • Industrial maintenance trainee
  • Mechatronics technician
  • Automation technician
  • Medical-device manufacturing technician
  • Process technician
  • Food manufacturing technician
  • Maintenance technician trainee
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician trainee
  • Healthcare trainee
  • Medical assistant trainee
  • Pharmacy technician trainee
  • IT trainee
  • Utility trainee
  • Development program
  • Academy

Search through:

🟩 Manufacturing Earn-and-Learn

Minnesota manufacturers may hire workers into entry-level production or technician positions and provide advancement into skilled technical occupations.

Search:

  • Manufacturing technician
  • CNC trainee
  • Machine operator trainee
  • Industrial maintenance trainee
  • Mechatronics technician
  • Automation technician
  • Quality technician

Ask:

  • What training is provided?
  • Is training paid?
  • Is there a formal career ladder?
  • Does the employer sponsor Registered Apprenticeships?
  • Can employees move into skilled trades?
  • Does the employer pay for Minnesota State coursework?

🟩 Medical-Device Employer Training

Minnesota's medical-device industry may provide paid entry-level technical pathways under titles that do not use the word apprenticeship.

Search:

  • Manufacturing technician
  • Production technician
  • Equipment technician
  • Quality technician
  • CNC machinist
  • Maintenance technician

Ask:

  • Am I employed during training?
  • Is training paid?
  • Is this a Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Does the employer pay for additional education?
  • Can training earn college credit?
  • What career pathway follows?

🟩 Healthcare Earn-and-Learn

Healthcare employers may provide paid training that allows workers to begin employment while preparing for an occupational credential.

Search:

  • Medical assistant trainee
  • CNA training
  • Pharmacy technician trainee
  • Sterile processing trainee
  • Behavioral health trainee
  • Direct support professional
  • Community health worker
  • Healthcare career pathway

Ask whether the employer:

  • Hires you before training
  • Pays you during training
  • Pays tuition or certification costs
  • Operates a Registered Apprenticeship
  • Provides college credit through an education partner

🟩 Agriculture & Food-Production Training

Agriculture and food-production employers may provide structured paid training for:

  • Agricultural equipment
  • Diesel technology
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Refrigeration
  • Process operations
  • Automation
  • Transportation

Ask whether training is:

  • Employer-paid
  • Connected with a Minnesota State college
  • Connected with Registered Apprenticeship
  • Designed to lead to a permanent skilled position

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 MINNESOTA — PART 4A ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — 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.

Minnesota 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

💰 CareerForce Training Assistance

Start with CareerForce Minnesota.

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.

💰 Minnesota State Training

Before paying for private career training, investigate Minnesota State colleges.

Ask about:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Related Technical Instruction
  • Employer-paid education
  • Financial aid
  • Workforce funding
  • Short-term credentials
  • Technical certificates
  • Diplomas
  • College credit
  • Paid Work-Based Learning
  • Co-op
  • Employer partnerships

💰 North Star Promise

Eligible Minnesota residents may qualify for the North Star Promise Scholarship program for education at eligible Minnesota public higher-education institutions and Tribal Colleges.

Because income limits, eligibility requirements, award calculations, and other program rules can change, verify current requirements before making enrollment decisions.

Ask:

  • Am I currently eligible?
  • What tuition and fees are covered?
  • What expenses remain?
  • Does my program qualify?
  • Can the program prepare me for apprenticeship?
  • Which employers recruit from the program?
  • Does the college provide Related Technical Instruction for apprentices?

North Star Promise is not itself an apprenticeship.

💰 Minnesota State Grant & Other Financial Aid

Minnesota students may also qualify for state, federal, institutional, or other financial aid.

Ask the college:

  • Which grants and scholarships apply?
  • What costs remain after aid?
  • Is workforce funding available?
  • Does an employer pay tuition?
  • Is the program connected with Registered Apprenticeship?

💰 Employer-Paid Apprenticeship Education

Before enrolling independently in technical education because you want an apprenticeship, ask the employer or sponsor:

  • Do you pay for Related Technical Instruction?
  • Which college do your apprentices attend?
  • Is tuition paid directly?
  • Are books included?
  • Are tools included?
  • Are certification or licensing fees covered?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?
  • Do I need to be hired before enrolling?

For many apprenticeship pathways, the employer hires the apprentice first and then arranges or pays for the related education.

💰 Employer Tuition Assistance

Minnesota employers may also provide tuition assistance outside Registered Apprenticeship.

Ask:

  • Is tuition paid in advance or reimbursed?
  • Which programs qualify?
  • Is there a grade requirement?
  • Is there an employment commitment?
  • Can tuition assistance support a technical certificate, diploma, or degree?
  • Could the education lead into an internal apprenticeship?

💰 Free or Grant-Funded Short-Term Training

CareerForce partners, Minnesota State colleges, workforce organizations, nonprofits, unions, and employers may periodically offer free or grant-funded training.

Programs may include:

  • Advanced manufacturing
  • CNC machining
  • Industrial maintenance
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Information technology
  • Transportation
  • Agriculture
  • Food manufacturing
  • Energy

Before enrolling, ask:

  • Is the training completely free?
  • Are books, tools, exams, and certifications covered?
  • Which employers recruit participants?
  • Does the program connect with Registered Apprenticeship?
  • What paid job can follow?

🟧 Before Paying for Pre-Apprenticeship

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

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

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

🟩 Supportive Services

Eligible workforce or pre-apprenticeship 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 CareerForce or the program provider 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.

North Star Promise-Supported Education — eligible Minnesota students may receive assistance for qualifying public higher education.

Other Financial Aid — state, federal, college, employer, or other assistance may reduce training costs.

Pre-Apprenticeship — may provide free or funded preparation and employer connections.

Self-Paid Training — you pay the cost yourself.

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

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

Your Minnesota 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, 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 Apprenticeship Minnesota

Use Minnesota's official apprenticeship resources to investigate:

  • Registered Apprenticeship
  • Apprenticeship sponsors
  • Apprentice occupations
  • Employer programs
  • Program requirements
  • Current apprenticeship initiatives

Step 3 — Search Apprenticeship.com

Search by:

  • Occupation
  • Industry
  • Minnesota
  • City
  • 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 jurisdiction
  • Recruiting schedule
  • Related Technical Instruction provider

Step 6 — Contact CareerForce

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeships are recruiting?
  • Which sponsors operate in my region?
  • Which employers offer paid training?
  • Is WIOA assistance available?
  • Is On-the-Job Training available?
  • Are supportive services available?
  • Are pre-apprenticeship programs available?
  • Are grant-funded training programs recruiting?

Step 7 — Search MinnesotaWorks.net

Do not search only apprentice.

Also try:

  • Trainee
  • Technician
  • CNC machinist trainee
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance trainee
  • Mechatronics technician
  • Automation technician
  • Medical-device manufacturing technician
  • Healthcare trainee
  • Medical assistant trainee
  • Pharmacy technician trainee
  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician trainee
  • IT trainee
  • Utility trainee
  • Paid training

Step 8 — Contact Your Regional Minnesota State College

Ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors currently work with this college?
  • Which employers are currently hiring apprentices?
  • Does the college provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Do I apply to the employer or college first?
  • Can apprenticeship earn college credit?
  • Can apprenticeship lead toward a certificate, diploma, or degree?
  • Is pre-apprenticeship available?
  • Are paid Work-Based Learning or co-op opportunities available?
  • Is workforce funding available?
  • Could North Star Promise or another financial-aid program apply?

Step 9 — Search Construction Sponsors Directly

Search:

  • Electrical apprenticeship
  • Plumbing apprenticeship
  • Pipefitter apprenticeship
  • Steamfitter apprenticeship
  • Carpenter apprenticeship
  • Sheet-metal apprenticeship
  • HVAC apprenticeship
  • Operating engineer apprenticeship
  • Ironworker apprenticeship
  • Millwright apprenticeship
  • Boilermaker apprenticeship
  • Sprinkler fitter apprenticeship
  • Laborer apprenticeship

Compare:

  • Union and joint apprenticeship programs
  • Contractor associations
  • Individual employers
  • Other Registered Apprenticeship sponsors

Pay attention to geographic jurisdiction and application periods.

Step 10 — Search Manufacturing Employers Directly

Search:

  • Medical-device manufacturers
  • Precision manufacturers
  • Machine shops
  • Metal fabricators
  • Food manufacturers
  • Machinery manufacturers
  • Electronics companies
  • Aerospace and defense suppliers
  • Automation companies
  • Industrial-equipment companies

Use terms such as:

  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Machinist apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Toolmaker apprentice
  • Automation technician
  • Manufacturing technician

Step 11 — Search Healthcare Employers

Search:

  • Hospitals
  • Health systems
  • Clinics
  • Long-term-care employers
  • Behavioral-health organizations
  • Home-health employers
  • Disability-service providers
  • Pharmacies

Try:

  • Medical assistant apprentice
  • Medical assistant trainee
  • CNA training
  • Pharmacy technician apprentice
  • Pharmacy technician trainee
  • Sterile processing trainee
  • Healthcare apprentice
  • Direct support professional apprentice

Step 12 — Search Agriculture & Food Employers

Search:

  • Food processors
  • Agricultural equipment employers
  • Farm-equipment dealerships
  • Food manufacturers
  • Refrigeration employers
  • Transportation employers
  • Agricultural cooperatives

Use:

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Process technician
  • Automation technician
  • Food manufacturing technician

Step 13 — Search Public Employers

Include:

  • State of Minnesota
  • Cities
  • Counties
  • MnDOT
  • Metro Transit
  • Other transit agencies
  • Utilities
  • Water/wastewater systems
  • Public works
  • School districts
  • Minnesota State colleges

Search both:

apprentice and trainee

Also search:

  • Technician
  • Operator
  • Mechanic
  • Maintenance

Step 14 — If You Are Still in High School

Investigate:

  • 🟨 Youth Skills Training
  • 🟨 Career and Technical Education
  • 🟨 Paid Work-Based Learning
  • 🟨 Youth apprenticeship
  • 🟧 Pre-apprenticeship

Ask:

  • Which employers participate?
  • Is the work paid?
  • Is the student an employee?
  • Is the employer a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor?
  • Can the pathway continue into Registered Apprenticeship?
  • Can the student earn college credit?

Step 15 — 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
  • Minnesota State technical education
  • Grant-funded workforce training

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, diploma, 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 MINNESOTA — PART 4C ===
=== BEGIN MINNESOTA — 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

Minnesota Career Areas to Explore

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

👷 Construction & Skilled Trades

Search:

  • Electrician
  • Carpenter
  • Plumber
  • Pipefitter
  • Steamfitter
  • Sheet-metal worker
  • HVAC technician
  • Operating engineer
  • Ironworker
  • Millwright
  • Boilermaker
  • Sprinkler fitter

🏭 Advanced Manufacturing

Search:

  • CNC machinist
  • Precision machinist
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Manufacturing technician
  • Mechatronics technician
  • Toolmaker
  • Automation technician
  • Robotics technician
  • Electronics technician

🏥 Healthcare

Search:

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

💻 Information Technology & Cybersecurity

Search:

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

🌾 Agriculture & Food Production

Search:

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician
  • Food manufacturing technician
  • Industrial maintenance technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Process technician
  • Automation technician

🚚 Transportation & Logistics

Search:

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

✈️ Aviation

Search:

  • Aviation maintenance technician
  • Aircraft mechanic
  • Avionics technician
  • Ground-equipment technician
  • Facilities technician

⚡ Energy & Utilities

Search:

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

🌱 Renewable Energy

Search:

  • Wind technician
  • Solar installer
  • Renewable-energy technician
  • Electrical technician
  • Maintenance technician
  • Energy-efficiency 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota State RTI partners
  • Registering a program
  • Recruiting apprentices
  • Expanding an existing program
  • Connecting apprenticeship with college credentials

Minnesota State colleges can be especially useful partners for employers seeking:

  • Related Technical Instruction
  • Technical laboratories
  • Curriculum development
  • College credit
  • Certificates, diplomas, and degrees
  • Workforce training
  • Potential apprenticeship candidates

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

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

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

Start Your Minnesota Apprenticeship Search

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

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 Minnesota's 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.

Minnesota Search Priorities

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

Depending on where you live, investigate:

  • 👷 Construction and skilled trades
  • 🏭 Advanced and precision manufacturing
  • 🛠️ Industrial maintenance and mechatronics
  • 🏥 Healthcare
  • 💻 Information technology and cybersecurity
  • 🌾 Agriculture and food production
  • 🚚 Transportation and logistics
  • ✈️ Aviation
  • ⚡ Energy and utilities
  • 🌱 Renewable energy
  • 🚰 Water and wastewater

Do not search only the largest employers.

Minnesota's manufacturing and industrial economy also includes:

  • Precision machine shops
  • Medical-device manufacturers
  • Metal fabricators
  • Food processors
  • Electronics manufacturers
  • Automation companies
  • Industrial-equipment companies
  • Aerospace and defense suppliers
  • Maintenance contractors

Smaller and midsize employers can be valuable apprenticeship sources.

If You Are Interested in Manufacturing

Do not search only manufacturing apprentice.

Search the occupation.

Try:

  • CNC machinist apprentice
  • Machinist apprentice
  • Toolmaker apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Maintenance mechanic apprentice
  • Mechatronics apprentice
  • Automation technician
  • Robotics technician
  • Manufacturing technician

Then search:

  • Manufacturers
  • Machine shops
  • Medical-device companies
  • Food manufacturers
  • Equipment companies
  • Metal fabricators
  • Automation companies

If You Are Interested in Healthcare

Search both apprenticeship resources and healthcare employer career sites.

Try:

  • Medical assistant apprentice
  • Medical assistant trainee
  • CNA apprentice
  • CNA training
  • Pharmacy technician apprentice
  • Pharmacy technician trainee
  • Sterile processing trainee
  • Behavioral health apprentice
  • Community health worker apprentice
  • Direct support professional apprentice

Ask whether the employer:

  • Hires you before training
  • Pays you during training
  • Pays tuition or certification costs
  • Operates a Registered Apprenticeship
  • Provides college credit through an education partner

If You Are Interested in Agriculture or Food Production

Search:

  • Agricultural equipment technician
  • Diesel technician apprentice
  • Industrial maintenance apprentice
  • Food manufacturing technician
  • Refrigeration technician
  • Process technician
  • Automation technician

Then investigate:

  • Agricultural equipment employers
  • Food processors
  • Food manufacturers
  • Agricultural cooperatives
  • Transportation employers
  • Equipment dealers
  • Industrial-service companies

If You Are Still in High School

Ask your:

  • School counselor
  • CTE instructor
  • Work-Based Learning coordinator
  • Youth Skills Training contact
  • Local employer
  • Regional Minnesota State college
  • CareerForce provider

Ask specifically:

Which employers currently offer paid Youth Skills Training, youth apprenticeship, apprenticeship-connected Work-Based Learning, or other paid technical career pathways in this region?

Then determine whether the opportunity is:

  • A Registered Apprenticeship
  • Connected with Registered Apprenticeship
  • Pre-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
  • 🟪 Minnesota State technical education
  • 💰 WIOA
  • 💰 North Star Promise where applicable
  • 💰 State and federal financial aid
  • 💰 Other employer, union, workforce, or grant-funded training

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 technical instruction.

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, community or technical 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 Skills Training, Youth Apprenticeship & Work-Based Learning

Youth Skills Training, youth apprenticeship, CTE, 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 youth pathway itself is registered
  • Whether the pathway connects 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 or union participation
  • Connections with Registered Apprenticeship
  • Whether completion provides advanced standing, direct entry, or preferred consideration where applicable
  • What paid opportunity may follow

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

Community & Technical College Enrollment

A Minnesota State college may be an important apprenticeship partner without being the organization that hires apprentices.

Before enrolling in a technical program because you want an apprenticeship, ask:

  • Which Registered Apprenticeship sponsors use this college?
  • Which employers are currently hiring?
  • Does the employer require applicants to enroll before hiring?
  • Or does the employer hire first and then send apprentices to the college?
  • Does the college provide Related Technical Instruction?
  • Can apprenticeship training earn college credit?
  • Who pays tuition?

This can prevent you from paying for education that an apprenticeship employer might otherwise provide.

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

Minnesota residents near state borders may find apprenticeship opportunities in:

  • Wisconsin
  • Iowa
  • North Dakota
  • South Dakota

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 Minnesota
  • Whether additional Minnesota requirements apply

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

Funding & Financial Assistance

WIOA, North Star Promise, state and federal financial aid, employer tuition support, workforce grants, supportive services, and veterans benefits 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
  • Whether funding must be approved before training begins

Occupational Licensing

Some Minnesota occupations require state or local licenses, certifications, examinations, supervised experience, 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, unions, 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, workforce organization, or other responsible 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 the status of Youth Skills Training, youth apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, CTE, or Work-Based Learning.
  • 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, North Star Promise, financial aid, supportive services, or veterans benefits.

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

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