MET Apprenticeship Program
Our program aims to strengthen career pathways into skilled technical roles by preparing individuals for a career as a Mechanical Engineering Technician.
What is an Apprenticeship?
A Registered Apprenticeship Program or RAP is a type of work-based training program that combines classroom instruction with a paid job that provides on-the-job training, under a mentor, to prepare workers for highly skilled careers. After successfully completing the RAP, apprentices earn a nationally recognized portable credential that is similar to a college degree in a particular field of study.
Why Apprenticeships?
This “Earn While You Learn” training model is a proven tool for recruiting and retaining skilled and diverse workers. Interest in apprenticeships is growing fast and will help expand the skilled technical workforce to build a pipeline of highly qualified and diverse talent.
Employer Value Proposition
- Proven strategy for the recruitment, development, and retainment of a diverse, skilled, and sustainable workforce
- 90% of apprentices continue employment with company after completing an apprenticeship program
- Tax credit incentives are available to most companies
- Promote greater problem-solving ability and adaptability in employees
- Fosters a diverse and inclusive company culture
- Stronger integration with Community College and Curriculum
Future Apprentice Value Proposition
- Receive an industry-recognized and nationally portable credential
- Gain workplace-relevant skills in mechanical engineering through on-the-job learning
- Earn as you learn with a guaranteed wage increase as you develop new skills
- Connect with mentor(s) in your chosen field who will help you advance your career
Our Program
Through the use of augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), instructor guided learning, and on-the-job training, ASME’s mechanical engineering technology registered apprenticeship program will help fill the knowledge and skills gap for community college engineering (or closely related field) graduates.Upon graduation, most community college students intend to transfer to a four-year institution to complete their bachelor’s degree, but recent research indicates that only 30-35% actually transfer, leaving 65-70% seeking employment. However, these individuals are unable to secure a job in the engineering field because they lack the basic knowledge and skills required for an entry level position.
Apprentices are employed full-time by a company and work approximately 30 hours per week and attend class the other 10 hours. The coursework will be recognized by ABET and may earn credit towards a bachelor's degree. The RAP will take approximately one year to complete and will consist of 144 hours of instruction and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training with a mentor.
To be eligible, students must have completed an associate’s degree in engineering or a closely related field that includes passing Calculus I, Calculus II, Physics, and Chemistry I. Engineering Math can be substituted for Calculus.