Plan Your Path Day 2026 | Session Info

Trades & Apprenticeships

48 | Youth Apprenticeships: Jumpstart Your Career While in High School! Did you know you can start a youth apprenticeship in high school? Come learn about what an apprenticeship is, who may benefit from this training option, the process of applying, etc. This is a great way to jumpstart your career while in high school! Questions to ask: What types of employers will hire a youth apprentice? How much will I get paid to work? Why would I do this instead of just getting a job?

This session is open to 10th & 11th grades.

The trades represent the "engine room" of our economy. While many people think of trades as just manual labor, modern skilled trades are high-tech, high-precision, and high-earning careers that often require advanced certifications. This session highlights why the "skills gap" makes this one of the most stable and lucrative paths for the next generation. Questions to ask: What types of internships will be available this summer? How do I prepare to apply for an internship and interview with prospective employers? What is the time commitment for this experience? 49 | Blue Collar Gold: Navigating the Modern Skilled Trades

The A+ scholarship program provides scholarship funds to high school graduates who attend a public community college, vocational/technical school , or certain private two-year vocational/technical schools. If you aren’t signed up for the A+ program yet, this is a great chance to learn about it! Questions to ask: What are the requirements to be a student in the A+ program? What are the benefits of the A+ program? Can I use my A+ scholarship benefits to go to technical school? 58 | The A+ Program: $$$ for College!

Did You Know?

Earning Potential - Skilled trade workers earn competitive salaries. The median (average) wages are $50,000 to $75,000 per year , often without any student loan debt.

Job Security - The demand for skilled trades is booming, with an expected shortage of 2 million workers in the U.S. by 2025. Quick Entry to Workforce - Trade programs typically take 6 months to 2 years to complete, allowing students to start earning faster than traditional college paths. Apprenticeship programs allow workers to earn while they learn!

Powered by