Apprenticeships | Rend Lake College
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Apprenticeships

Rend Lake College's Apprenticeship Program is an employer-driven 'learn while you earn' model that provides flexible credit curriculum combined with mentored on-the-job learning experiences.

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About

An Apprenticeship is a work-based learning model that is industry driven, commonly referred to as a 'learn while you earn' model. Apprentices obtain paid work experience while attending college. As the Apprentice acquires new skills, they are applied on the job under a mentor's supervision. In a Registered Apprenticeship Program, the Apprentice will receive an industry recognized credential upon completion of the program. Apprenticeship programs can provide workers with advanced skill sets that meet specific industry and employer needs. The Apprenticeship Model of learning is flexible; all programs are set up differently. The length of a program depends upon the employer's needs and the occupation.

Rend Lake College's Apprenticeship Program is an employer-driven 'learn while you earn' model that provides flexible credit curriculum combined with mentored on-the-job learning experiences. It is our goal to partner and collaborate with area businesses and industries to provide opportunities to receive advanced skill sets meeting industry standards for the long-term careers in our area.

Apprentices - How to Get Started

  1. Fill out an interest form
  2. Apply to RLC
  3. Take the placement exam 
  4. Apply to the Apprenticeship Program
  5. Submit your résumé & cover letter
apprenticeships

Occupations Within These Programs

  • Automotive Technician
  • Baking and Pastry Chef
  • Bus & Truck Maintenance Technician
  • Certified Nurse Assistant/Healthcare
  • Child Care Development Specialist
  • Computer Programmer
  • Diesel Technology
  • Elevator Repairer
  • General Farmer
  • Heavy Rail Car Repairer
  • Industrial Maintenance Mechanic
  • Industrial Truck Mechanic
  • Information Technology Security Specialist
  • Machinist
  • Network & Computer Specialist
  • Production Technologist (Manufacturing)
  • Truck Driver
  • Welder
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student journeys

Rend Lake Currently Offers These Programs

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Employer Benefits
  • Employee recruitment
  • Customized training/fill skill gaps
  • Grow talent within your business culture
  • Increase employee loyalty and reduce turnover
  • Tax credit & tuition
Student/Apprentice Benefits
  • Earn a living while attending school
  • Graduate with little to no college debt
  • Increased skill sets
  • Industry aligned education
  • Recognized credentials
Student/Apprentice Requirements
  • Eligible starting age: cannot be less than 16 years of age (most programs require individuals to be at least 18 years of age)
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Eligible to work in the US
  • Meet academic requirements for admission
  • Additional qualifications may vary based on the essential function of the job
Time-Based
Apprentices complete a required number of hours in on-the-job training and related instruction.
Competency-Based
Apprentices progress at their own pacethey demonstrate competency in skills and knowledge through proficiency tests but are not required to complete a specific number of hours.
Hybrid
A combination of time and competency. Minimum and maximum range of hours is set for the successful demonstration of identified and measured competencies.

Faculty & Staff