Apprenticeship Opportunities

In August 2022, the Hillsboro School District launched Oregon’s first industry-recognized and registered youth apprenticeship program: the Hillsboro Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship. This groundbreaking two-year program offers high school students (ages 16-18) the chance to gain hands-on, paid training in advanced manufacturing. It prepares students for careers in the industry while providing employers with a more diverse and skilled workforce. Upon completing the program, youth apprentices will receive certification from the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI), allowing them to work as certified manufacturing technicians anywhere. WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP? An apprenticeship blends academic and technical education with paid work experience in industries such as advanced manufacturing. Through a Registered Apprenticeship Program, participants build a professional network and develop valuable skills, positioning them for well-paying jobs. As they progress through the program, apprentices move from being unqualified to fully qualified for their chosen careers. THE OPPORTUNITY Advanced manufacturing is experiencing a workforce shortage in Washington County and across Oregon. The Hillsboro Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship program aims to address this by creating a diverse pipeline of skilled workers and providing youth with access to livable-wage jobs.  In Hillsboro, where 1 in 4 jobs is in manufacturing, there are approximately 800 open positions in advanced manufacturing, particularly at the technician level. Jobs in this field are expected to grow by 7% between 2021 and 2026, adding 2,470 new positions in Washington County. Nationally, apprentices earn an average of $300,000 more over their careers compared to non-apprentices.