Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship Program is a nationally-recognized program providing high school juniors and seniors with academic and work experience in a specific career cluster. Since 1991, the program connects students with classroom learning and practical application, equipping them with valuable skills, experience, and credentials for their future.

Youth Apprenticeship participants (students) divide their time between classroom instruction and on-the-job learning. This dual approach helps students develop industry-specific skills and knowledge while obtaining a head start on their career paths.

Students typically spend part of their school week attending regular classes and the other part working at a job site under the supervision of experienced mentors. Students earn academic credit that can count towards high school graduation requirements and post-secondary education, such as certificates or associate degrees. 

Through paid work experiences, students develop industry-specific skills and gain a better understanding of workplace expectations and culture. They may work on real projects, learn technical skills, and develop soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

The YA program is administered through partnerships between high schools, technical colleges, employers, and local workforce development boards. The Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin serves as the administrator for the Youth Apprenticeship Program in Dane County and Jefferson County. Funding for the YA program is made possible through the Department of Workforce Development’s Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards.