Apprenticeship Opportunities
MassBioEd:
MassBioEd’s mission is to cultivate a sustainable life sciences workforce in the region through educational initiatives that engage and inspire teachers, motivate students, and clearly outline the pathways from classroom to career, emphasizing expansion, opportunity, and diversity.
In 2001, the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MassBio) established the Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation (MassBioEd), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, to address the workforce needs of Massachusetts’ life sciences sector.
Since its inception, MassBioEd has developed and refined programs aimed at training educators in biotechnology, sparking student interest in science and providing exposure to college and career opportunities within the life sciences. They collaborate with industry and educational stakeholders to align training with industry requirements.
The life sciences are vital. It is crucial to educate the next generation, promote diverse career opportunities in the industry to underserved communities, and attract new skilled workers. MassBioEd is dedicated to addressin these challenges.
MassBioEd’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program is designed for individuals interested in pursuing a career in biotechnology. This program offers participants FREE education and training centered on topics relevant to in-demand jobs in the life sciences. Throughout the program, pre-apprentices will gain an overview of the biotech industry, develop hands-on lab skills essential for biotech roles, and receive job readiness support. This pre-apprenticeship serves as an invaluable first step toward a rewarding career in biotechnology.
The Details: 10 weeks of classroom training starting in January 2025; Online and in-person classes will be required; Must be 18+ years old and able to commute to the Greater Boston area
Training Program: Opportunities to learn in the areas of Math, Science, English Language and Computer Skills; Hands-on practice with Lab Skills; Support in Soft Skills, Job Readiness, and Job Awareness; Mentoring opportunities with industry experts
Pre-Apprenticeship provides a pathway to MassBioEd’s Life Sciences Apprenticeship Program.
To Learn More About MassBioEd’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program, Click Here.
Biomanufacturing Technicians (BMTs) play a crucial role in delivering life-changing biological products and therapies to patients. These highly skilled professionals prepare materials for cellular growth and production, monitor operations, and document workflows.
In addition to foundational scientific knowledge, BMTs cultivate strong analytical and collaboration skills. Biomanufacturing requires multiple functional areas to work together, providing BMTs with an introduction to various potential career paths.
15 Weeks of Classroom Training:
-Fundamentals of biology, chemistry, and mathematics
-An overview of drug development science and business
-Training in communication, team management, and conflict resolution
-Introduction to good manufacturing practices, supply chain logistics, compliance, and documentation
-Hands-on laboratory training and practice
1 Year of On-the-Job Training
-Full-time employment as a paid apprentice, with wages that increase over the training period
-Skills training in company-specific product lines and technical requirements
Opportunities for Professional and Peer Mentoring
A Pathway to Permanent Employment
To Learn More About MassBioEd’s Biomanufacturing Technician Apprenticeship, Click Here.
Laboratory Support Specialists (LSSs) coordinate various tasks within lab operations. They are typically responsible for the proper storage, cleaning, and disposal of lab supplies and chemical solutions. LSSs must possess strong organizational skills to effectively monitor lab inventory, equipment, and procedures. They also need to communicate regularly with other lab personnel and vendors to order supplies and schedule equipment maintenance.
9 Weeks of Classroom Training:
-Fundamentals in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
-Hands-on laboratory and OSHA training
-Communication, team management, and conflict resolution
-An overview of the science and business of drug development
-Training in business computer skills
1 Year of On-the-Job Training:
-Full-time employment as a paid apprentice, with wages that increase throughout the training period
-Skills training specific to laboratory support within the company
Opportunities for Professional and Peer Mentoring
Pathway to Permanent Employment
To Learn More About MassBioEd’s Laboratory Support Specialist Apprenticeship, Click Here.
New England Laborers’ Training Trust Fund:
The Laborers’ International Union of North American (LIUNA) has been preparing its members for success in the competitive construction industry for nearly fifty years. The New England Region has taken the lead in training, boasting two state-of-the-art New England Laborers’ Training Academics (NELTA) in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, and Pomfret, Connecticut. Their academies are fully equipped and provide LIUNA members with a wide range of courses, including general construction, hazardous waste remediation, lead and asbestos abatement, and cutting and burning, among others. NELTA is dedicated to offering the highest quality training available.
An apprenticeship is the first step toward a rewarding career, providing a solid job that offers stability, competitive pay, health benefits, retirement plans, and growth opportunities. LIUNA’s registered apprenticeship program is your gateway to all these advantages and more. No prior construction experience is required–just a strong willingness to learn and work hard.
As a LIUNA Construction Craft Laborer apprentice, you will “earn while you learn” and receive comprehensive training. Apprentices begin by earning a percentage of the journey worker wage, with regular pay increases as you achieve predetermined milestones.
A journey worker is someone who has fulfilled the required hours and completed all necessary classroom training. LIUNA apprentices start earning wages immediately while gaining hands-on experience and classroom education. As you develop your skills and knowledge, your pay rate will increase accordingly. As a LIUNA member, you will also have access to ongoing career development and skill enhancement at advanced training centers across North America. Opportunities in commercial construction include working on building, bridges, roads, tunnels, environmental protection through hazardous material removal, pipeline construction, and green technology. LIUNA’s Construction Craft Laborer Apprenticeship Program prepares you for a successful career in the construction industry.
To Learn More About the Construction Craft Laborer Apprenticeship, Click Here.
Building Pathways:
Building Pathways is a Boston-based non-profit organization committed to recruiting, retaining, and advancing underrepresented groups in the union building trades, with a particular focus on women, people of color, and young adults.
They pursue their mission through an integrated supply and demand strategy aimed at increasing the pipeline of diverse workers in the building trades while ensuring that there are employment and advancement opportunities that lead to lifelong, family-sustaining careers.
To implement this strategy, Building Pathways focuses on four key pillars of work:
1. Pre-Apprenticeship Training
2. Outreach to Diverse Communities
3. Respectful Workplace
4. Advocacy
Interested in a Construction Career?
If you’re looking to start a career in construction but aren’t sure how to begin, the Building Pathways Building Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Program can guide you through the process. You’ll learn about the industry, develop hands-on skills, and compete for openings in union apprenticeship programs.
Through over 200 hours of free Career Readiness and Occupational Skills Training, which includes both classroom and practical experiences, Building Pathways equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter and thrive in a registered union apprenticeship program. You’ll also receive coordinated case management and placement services to help you achieve your career aspirations. Once you’re placed in a reputable apprenticeship program, you’ll gain valuable on-the-job training while earning competitive wages and benefits, along with ongoing support from our team.
Why Does Their Pre-Apprenticeship Training Work?
-Their program has been nationally recognized as one of the best in the United States
-It offers a pathway to real, high-paying construction jobs
-They train individuals to become outstanding apprentices, who will evolve into the best tradespeople in the industry
-They provide opportunities for long-term, skilled careers. Their program is uniquely recognized as a union-based apprenticeship
To Learn More About the Building Trades Pre-Apprenticeship, Click Here.
YouthBuild:
Founded in 1990, YouthBuild Boston (YBB) aims to support underserved young people by equipping them with the credentials and resources needed to successfully enter the construction and design industries.
Mission:
The Role of YouthBuild in Building a Better Boston
YouthBuild Boston empowers and supports young people of color by providing them with essential social, vocational, academic, and life skills. This foundation helps them navigate a positive path toward self-sufficiency, community responsibility, and careers in the building industry.
Vision:
The City They Aim to Help Create
YouthBuild Boston envisions a city filled with opportunities for all young people, alongside a building trades sector that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. They aspire to create a region with a strong supply of affordable housing and an economy that offers pathways for everyone to thrive.
YouthBuild Boston’s 15-week program is designed for young people aged 18-25 who possess a high school diploma or equivalent and are eager to launch a career in the construction industry. Participants gain hands-on experience on actual construction sites, ensuring they are prepared for employment upon graduation.
This intensive Pre-Apprenticeship program includes onsite construction training, visits to training centers, and professional development workshops. Participants receive certifications such as OSHA-10, CPR/First Aid/AED, and Fall Safety training, among others. A diverse range of workshops covers topics from metal stud framing to Networking 101. YBB’s Pre-Apprenticeship training aims to pave the way for full-time construction positions, apprenticeship opportunities in union jobs, and other rewarding careers in the trades.
To Learn More About YouBuild Boston’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program, Click Here.
YouthBuild Boston also offers the only registered Facilities Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship in Massachusetts.
This 18-month program is designed for young people aged 18-25 and combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training, paving the way for a sustainable career as a Facilities Maintenance Technician.
Apprentices gain essential skills in plumbing, electrical work, and mechanical maintenance, as well as cleaning, preventative maintenance, pest management, landscaping, and occupational health and safety, all while working full-time with an employer sponsor. Participants also earn 8 college credits that can be applied toward a Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management if they wish to further their education after the program.
To Learn More About YouthBuild Boston’s Facilities Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship, Click Here.
Good Jobs Metro Boston Coalition:
The Good Jobs Metro Boston Coalition is dedicated to training and placing residents into 4,618 quality jobs over a three-year period, focusing on childcare, healthcare, and clean energy sectors. They serve: Unemployed and underemployed individuals; Current workers seeking advancement; Community college students; BIPOC individuals in the Greater Boston area.
About the Good Jobs Challenge: The Good Jobs Challenge is a $500 million initiative from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA), aimed at creating opportunities for training and placement into high-quality jobs through a sector-based approach.
What Defines A Good Job: A salary that exceeds the regional prevailing wage for the industry. Basic benefits such as paid leave, health insurance, retirement plans, and/or union representation. Opportunities for career development and skill advancement.
How They Assist: Offering training programs for quality jobs in childcare, clean energy, and healthcare; Providing support with job interview preparation and placement; Collaborating with partners to expand training models and create pathways for career advancement
The Weatherization Training Program is an intensive, hands-on program offered at the Asian American Civic Association Innovation Center. Courses, led by certified instructors, follow a work-like schedule from 8 AM to 4 PM. Participants will learn insulation and air sealing basics, addressing the anticipated demand for these skills. This program includes resume assistance and job placement support.
This secotr is one of the fastet’s growing clean energy industries in the U.S., with studies predicting over 16,000 new jobs in Weatherization. The course consists of a two-week intensive, hands-on taining, followed by guaranteed job placement. Entry-level positions require no prior experience and offer pay up to $25/hour. Advanced roles, such as Crew Chief and Supervisor, can earn up to $120,000 annually.
Weatherization serves as a pre-apprenticeship program, linking graduates with apprenticeship opportunities through employer partners.
Requirements:
-Must be at least 18 years old
-High school diploma is not required
-Legally authorized to work in the U.S.
-Must have a driver’s license or reliable transportation
-Must pass a drug test (cannabis use accepted)
-Must pass a background check
-Physically fit for construction work
-Must pass an intake assessment
To Learn More, Click Here.
The BEEMS Program is a FREE 13-week training initiative designed to prepare participants for careers as maintenance technicians or engineers. This hands-on course covers the fundamentals of carpentry, plumbing, painting, electricity, and essential job skills. Additionally, the curriculum includes a focus on energy efficiency and weatherization. Classes are held at their Innovation Center in the early evenings, twice a week, with starting salaries ranging from $20 to $28 per hour.
What You Will Learn:
The 4-Month Training Program Includes:
-Basic carpentry, plumbing, painting, electricity, and building efficiency
-English and math skills relevant to the maintenance industry
-In-person training two evenings a week
-Job readiness training
-OSHA 10 Certification
Where You Will Work: Employer partners include major hospitals, hotels, property management groups, schools, and various other sectors.
BEEMS also serves as a pre-apprenticeship program, connecting graduates with apprenticeship opportunities through employer partners.
Benefits: Direct job search assistance is offered throughout the training. The team will connect you with employer partners and support your application process to help you launch your new career
Job Retention: They provide two years of career support to help you advance in your field and reach your full potential
Requirements:
-The program is free for low-income or dislocated workers who qualify for funding
-Must be 18 years or older
-Work authorization in the U.S. is required
-A valid U.S. driver’s license is preferred
-CORI-friendly
-Commitment to pursuing a job in the maintenance field upon completion of the program
-Pass an intake assessment
To Learn More, Click Here.
BEST Hospitality Program:
BEST Hospitality Program’s mission is to equip individuals with the education, skills, and training necessary to thrive in the hospitality industry and enhance their personal lives. They treat all visitors to BEST Hospitality Training and one another with respect, interest, and attention. They strive to embody the professional standards upheld at their partner hotels. This includes their language, attire, work ethic, tone, and manners. They aim to present themselves as world-class in every situation and take ownership of their tasks and responsibilities, ensuring they are recognized for their commitment to excellent follow-through.
Everyone brings unique contributions to the table. To fully appreciate the value of our differences, it is important to be kind, patient, and open to challenging assumptions. Their diverse experiences lead to deeper insights and solutions to complex issues. The diversity within their staff, clients, and stakeholders strengthens their effectiveness as a learning organization.
The Introduction to Hospitality, Housekeeping Pre-Apprenticeship Program is a 150-hour, Massachusetts-registered pre-apprenticeship designed for hotel housekeeping. This free training prepares graduates for union housekeeping positions at their partner hotels.
Program Details:
Schedule: Classes are held in-person Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 2 PM for six weeks
Job Shadowing: Students will complete four shifts (7 AM to 5 PM) of job shadowing at two different partner hotels
Curriculum: The program includes hands-on skills training in hotel rooms, OSHA housekeeping safety certification, professionalism, resume writing, interview preparation, customer service, job readiness, technology skills, and effective communication
Support Services: Each student receives one-on-one career coaching, job placement assistance, and job retention support. Additional services may be provided to help students overcome barriers to participation, such as transportation, childcare, and housing
Graduates will receive a nationally recognized certificate of pre-apprenticeship completion from the Massachusetts Department of Labor, Division of Apprentice Standards. They will also earn nine credits towards Bunker Hill Community College’s Hospitality Management program. After being hired, graduates will begin a 2,00-hour on-the-job apprenticeship. Upon successful completion, they will receive a nationally recognized certification from the Massachusetts Department of Labor and three additional credits from Bunker Hill Community College.
Eligibility Requirements: To participate in the Introduction to Hospitality, Housekeeping Pre-Apprenticeship Program, applicants must:
-Be authorized to work in the United States
-Communicate effectively in English
-Work a rotating schedule, including weekends and holidays
-Pass an employer background check and drug test
-Lift 50 pounds, push 250 pounds, and stand for four hours
-Be ready to start work immediately
The next class for the Introduction to Hospitality, Housekeeping Pre-Apprenticeship Program begins on January 13, 2025.
For More Information, Click Here.