There are many roads to reshaping your life after incarceration, and apprenticeship programs are at the top of the list. If you want to start a business or even get a high-paying job, you need to learn the right skills that employers will require.
Out of all the many programs you can start, apprenticeship programs are arguably the most felon-friendly. The entire concept is built around giving people a second chance at life—which is what they really need.
Depending on the number of years you were put away, you may not know how much things have changed. And even if you do, you also have to learn the modern skills that will make you employable.
After an apprenticeship program, you will be equipped with the skills that will even make employers overlook your criminal record. If there is any job you are determined to get, learn a skill that the job description demands.
Companies are experiencing a shortage in the number of people that can carry out jobs that require special skills. Many headlines have referred to this as a “talent shortage,” so you can learn any of those skills through apprenticeship programs and secure a good job.
Some of the special skills that companies are looking for include machine operators, engineers, IT staff, and management executives. Skilled trades are also in high-demand, and it will be better if you learn the one that fits into your natural talent.
If the felon-friendly nature of the apprenticeship program is not enough to encourage you, there are other advantages. After successfully completing your apprenticeship program, you will have a 91% chance of securing employment. And the salary is usually good; you can make $60,000 per annum.
Finding an apprenticeship program
There are so many apprenticeship programs you can register with. You will find a few of them here, and depending on your location, you may need to use the resources below to find the one closest to you.
Before you take a look at the various apprenticeship programs available, remember that you must be honest. If you are asked about your past, always be honest about it during the application.
Another important thing to note is that while it’s important to learn a skill related to your talents, you should not get involved with one that is also related to the crime you committed in the past. If you do, it will be hard for you to get a license when you want to start practicing.
If you live in California, the California Apprenticeship Programs are a very good place to start. You will find enough details about available programs that will help you start a good career.
There is also the Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program. If you live in Maryland, you can find all the details you need on that website. For other parts of the country, you can visit the American Job Center.
