This week, we want to explore the path of learning via apprenticeship which is an area that is growing more and more on the educational spectrum.  Apprenticeship is basically learning experientially or learning while working alongside mentors who guide and assess your progress.  Many apprenticeship programs also have some accompanying traditional learning practices as well so that you can learn the foundational elements of whatever you are pursuing. 

Apprenticeships have historically been more prevalent in the trades and more physically related jobs, however there is a growing tendency to include more experiential learning in other jobs and industries as well.  Some post-secondary programs have ‘co-op’ components or ‘learning labs’ where practice and application are necessary requirements.  Some companies have abandoned traditional training where you sit in a room and learn the company’s operating systems for weeks and have moved to a model where you work with a mentor or guide who teaches you while you are actually doing the job. 

This alternative learning path is becoming more and more popular.  More women are exploring the trades as a career and people who learn better experientially are also pursuing careers where they can apprentice and create successful and lucrative careers for themselves. 

We encourage you to learn more about apprenticeship programs as you think about building your career or maybe making a career change. 

Have a great week, Shades readers, and please share us!