How Students Earn and Learn
Apprentices are able to earn money on the job and take college classes at no cost when they are hired by one of Gaston College’s apprenticeship program employers. See how you can get a jump start on a promising career, college credits, and financial stability.
- Get paid for on-the-job training
- Earn an associate degree, a diploma, or a certificate from Gaston College
- All tuition, books, and fees for classes are paid for by the employer, so you earn college credit debt free
- Have the option after apprenticeship graduation to apply credits earned to an associate degree or transfer credits to a state four-year university to earn a bachelor’s degree
- Obtain your NC Journeyworker credential and specialized experience that is recognized and sought by employers
- Many employers offer health insurance, retirement, and paid-time-off benefits to apprentices
The Value of Apprenticeship
The value of college classes plus pay received for training on the job varies among the career pathways in apprenticeship. On average, apprenticeships are the equivalent of a $7,400 scholarship, with some career pathways equating to a scholarship value of $10,000 to $11,500.
Depending on the career pathway, students begin the apprenticeship program being paid between $10.50 and $14.00 an hour and end the program making between $12.75 per hour to $24.75 per hour.
Manufacturing apprentices will receive hourly wage increments throughout the duration of their participation in the program.
Ready to Apply?
Find all the information you need about how to apply for an apprenticeship and student requirements.