Youth Apprenticeships
Youth Apprenticeships allow high school juniors and seniors at Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) to gain real-world work experience in potential careers of interest.
MPS students, want to explore career options—and get paid?
If you participate in our Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program, you’ll split your time between school and a paid job (about 15 hours a week). You’ll earn both school credit and wages while working alongside industry professionals. With the guidance of an experienced mentor, you'll develop valuable skills that set you apart—whether you choose to enter the workforce right away or continue your education after high school.
Those who successfully complete their YA program earn an Occupational Skills Proficiency Certification, proving they have the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience to succeed in their chosen career field. This certification is recognized across Wisconsin, giving YA graduates a competitive edge in the job market and beyond.
Eligibility and Requirements
Juniors and seniors can be apprentices. You can apply in your sophomore or junior year if you have:
- At least a 2.0 GPA
- A 90% attendance rate
- A readiness and willingness to work
Program Areas
Opportunities are organized into 16 broad Program Areas:
- Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
- Architecture and Construction
- Art, A/V Technology, and Communications
- Business Administration
- Education
- Finance
- Government and Public Administration
- Health Science
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Human Services
- Information Technology
- Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security
- Manufacturing
- Marketing
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics
Within each one, there are a number of more specific Occupational Pathways. For more information, visit the Department of Workforce Development.
Credits, Training, and Evaluation
Coursework
Each year students are enrolled in the Youth Apprenticeship program, they must complete one (1) high school credit or three (3) college credits of related instruction. This coursework enhances what they are learning in their apprenticeships.
On-the-Job Training
Students will complete 450 hours of training within their career area of interest, which averages out to 10 to 20 hours per week.
Ongoing Feedback from Employers
Employers will evaluate students on employability and technical skills throughout the program.
Applying for Apprenticeships
Have questions or need help with the form? Ask your school counselor or College and Career Center (CACC) staff, or contact Erin Cherney, youth apprenticeship coordinator, at cherneel@milwaukee.k12.wi.us.
MPS Student Job Board
Once you’ve filled out the interest form, it’s time to check the MPS Student Job Board—with jobs JUST for high schoolers. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a student account and start looking for jobs. New positions are posted regularly, so view what’s available and apply today.
Visit the MPS Student Job Board
Employers, add your open positions by clicking “Employers” and creating an account for your organization. Learn more about posting jobs for MPS students.
Employer Information
Are you looking for a way to invest in the future workforce while gaining support for your business?
The MPS Youth Apprenticeship Consortium connects engaged employers with aspiring young apprentices who are eager to learn and grow. We facilitate meaningful partnerships that enhance skill development and workplace readiness. Let’s work together to create pathways for success in your industry!
Register to Be an MPS Career and Technical Education Partner
Our Youth Apprenticeship Program has been connecting employers with high school student talent for over 25 years. Employers extend permanent job offers to more than 75 percent of the graduating youth apprentices annually, making this an excellent pipeline for recruiting and retaining loyal, well-trained talent.