Request Info
Several students studying with laptops around a table

Students

you deserve a career you love

Getting a traditional degree is not for everyone. It can be expensive and overwhelming. However, just because you don’t have a traditional 4-year degree does not mean that you don’t deserve to have a great career.

Consider participating in a registered apprenticeship while in high school. You will gain real world experience while getting paid and will complete a program with a guaranteed job and no student loans!

Berrien talent collaborative’s HIStory

In 2023, a group of education, business and chamber leaders met to discuss Berrien County’s talent problem. They recognized that:

  • Businesses are unable to find and retain workers.
  • Families are facing financial barriers. They cannot afford to send their children to traditional four-year colleges/universities. Students do not want to incur debt.
  • Students who receive post-secondary training are entering the workforce under prepared and unable to meet the specific and unique standards of individual companies.
  • There is a misconception that Berrien County lacks career opportunities, making it a less desirable place to live. As a result of this meeting, the Berrien Talent Collaborative was created. The Berrien Talent Collaborative is a partnership aimed at developing an education to career pipeline, with a focus on registered apprenticeship training.

benefits

  • You will earn high school credit while receiving advanced on-the-job training.
  • You will be paid for your time, earning an income while advancing your education.
  • You will learn industry-driven skills, helping you be more prepared for your career than what is often learned at traditional 4-year or university institutions.
  • In exchange for your education and training, you will be committed to working for the business after your apprenticeship for a specific number of years, guaranteeing your employment.
  • Many businesses that offer apprenticeship opportunities provide additional training opportunities, including financial assistance to earn your degree.
Smiling college girl working at a desk with tablet

PROCESS

1

Learn More

Fill out our short form requesting more information.

2

Plan

9th & 10th Grade

Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss your interests and how they could align with different careers.

3

Apply

Spring of 11th Grade

Apply for Youth Registered Apprenticeship (YRA) opportunities within Berrien County.

4

Interview

Before 12th Grade

The Berrien Talent Collaborative will match you with potential employers to interview with. If everyone agrees that it is a good fit, you are now an apprentice!

EMPLOYERS