What is an Apprentice?
Apprenticeship training is an excellent way to prepare you for high demand jobs such as Electricians, Boilermakers, Structural Welders, Pipewelders, Composite Mechanics, Pipefitters, Painters, and Machinists.
Apprenticeships are a combination of 2-5 years of on-the-job training (OJT) and related classroom instruction under the supervision of a journey-level craft person or trades professional in which an apprentice learns the practical and theoretical aspects of a highly skilled occupation.
Being an apprentice requires a strong academic foundation in math, reading, writing and science. Successfully completing an apprenticeship takes intelligence, dedication, focus and hard work. After graduating from your specialized program, you are at a journey-level status which provides an additional benefit of nationwide mobility at journey level pay-scale.
Our Apprentice Programs
Our Apprenticeship Programs are recognized as the backbone of a well-trained workforce. Therefore, every effort is made to provide each Apprentice with opportunities to learn all the phases of a selected craft.
Ingalls Shipbuilding: The present system of apprenticeship training at Ingalls Shipbuilding is designed to provide you an opportunity to master one of the crafts of shipbuilding. The regular apprentice program consists of a well-balanced curriculum of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction. Following successful completion of the program, you will be promoted to the status of journeyman.
All related course work completed in the apprentice curriculum will apply as college credit, and apprentices who complete the additional required courses will be awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree in Occupational Education.
Newport News Shipbuilding: The Newport News Apprentice School is an educational and career opportunity unlike any other. It provides high quality, comprehensive 4- and 5-year apprentice programs for students interested in shipbuilding careers.
Since 1919, our programs have produced over 9,000 graduates in support of the operational needs of Newport News Shipbuilding. The apprentice program allows a person to receive thorough instruction and experience - both theoretical and practical - in the various aspects of a skilled trade.
Today's apprentices are fully-trained, well-paid men and women acquiring skills and knowledge that will serve them well throughout their careers.
*The Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School is accredited.