Apprenticeship mentor and trainee working together on a skilled trades project
Registered Apprenticeship

Build a Career. Earn While You Learn.

Western Tennessee A&M operates registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship pathways authorized under the U.S. Department of Labor and the Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development.

Explore Pathways

Federal & State Authorization

Our apprenticeship programs are developed and operated in compliance with the standards established by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship and the Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development.

U.S. Department of Labor

Office of Apprenticeship — Registered Program

Tennessee DLWD

State Apprenticeship Agency — Authorized

501(c)(3) Nonprofit

Western Tennessee A&M — Est. 1918

Registered apprenticeships combine structured on-the-job training (OJT) with related technical instruction (RTI), providing apprentices with industry-recognized credentials upon completion. Our programs meet or exceed all federal and state standards for apprenticeship design, wage progression, and safety.

Apprenticeship Pathways

Two structured entry points designed for where you are today.

Pre-Apprenticeship

8–12 Weeks

Pre-apprenticeship prepares candidates for entry into a registered apprenticeship program. Participants develop foundational technical skills, workplace readiness, and the academic competencies required to succeed in a full apprenticeship. Completion may qualify graduates for direct entry into a registered apprenticeship with a sponsoring employer.

  • Foundational technical and workplace skills training
  • Academic support and career readiness preparation
  • Direct pathway to registered apprenticeship placement
  • No prior industry experience required

Registered Apprenticeship

1–3 Years

Registered apprenticeships combine paid on-the-job training with related technical instruction at Western Tennessee A&M. Apprentices earn industry-recognized credentials and progressive wage increases as they advance through structured competency milestones. Programs are developed in direct partnership with sponsoring employers.

  • Earn a wage from day one of training
  • Progressive wage increases tied to skill milestones
  • Industry-recognized credential upon completion
  • Employer-sponsored with guaranteed job placement

Industries We Serve

Apprenticeship pathways are available across the sectors shaping the Mid-South economy.

Technology & AI

AI support, digital operations, and technology infrastructure roles

Telecommunications

Fiber optic installation, network infrastructure, and broadband deployment

Construction

Commercial and residential construction, site preparation, and skilled trades

Facilities Management

Building maintenance, HVAC, electrical, and property operations

Culinary & Hospitality

Professional kitchen operations, food service, and hospitality management

Healthcare Technology

Digital health, AI-assisted diagnostics, and health informatics — coming soon

Get Started

Whether you're a candidate ready to train or an employer looking to build your workforce, we're here to help.

Apply as a Candidate

Ready to start your apprenticeship journey? Submit your information and an enrollment advisor will contact you within 2 business days.

Questions About Our Programs?

Our enrollment advisors are available to walk you through the apprenticeship process and help you find the right pathway.

Contact Us