The federally approved EST Apprenticeship program is an effective way to train ESTs for the range of skills needed in today's workplace. Since EST Apprenticeship meets licensure requirements in many states it's also a good option for companies struggling with local licensure requirements. Cost effective for employers and resulting in highly skilled workers, the EST apprenticeship program is a win-win despite union affiliation. Proven effective, EST Apprenticeship has two components:
On-the-Job Training
Over a four-year apprenticeship, EST apprentices experience a minimum of 2,000 hours yearly of on-the-job training. As apprentices progress, their wages advance as pre-determined. A skilled supervisor in your company reviews, evaluates and maintains records related to the apprentice’s job performance. Over a four-year apprenticeship, EST Apprentices experience at least 2,000 hours yearly of on-the-job training in these areas:
- Preparing for System Installation
- Wiring Buildings
- Trimming
- Installing Components
- Configuring-Programming
- Testing, Troubleshooting, Debugging
- Training Users
- Documenting
- Maintaining and Repairing
With the assistance of the NSCA National Program Administrator, a skilled supervisor within your company will review, evaluate and maintain records related to the apprentice's job performance. As their skill increases, so do their wages, according to an existing scale.
Related Classroom Instruction
EST apprentices also participate in 144 hours per year of related, classroom instruction through the EST Training Series.
A Complete Apprenticeship Program
NSCA will guide both the employer and apprentice through the apprenticeship process. We also offer support for tracking and assessing employee progress through use of NSCA's National Program Manager. The National Program Administrator is the key to helping EST Apprenticeship participants comply with government and program requirements. Enrolling in the the NSCA Apprenticeship program gives you the following resources:
- Welcome Packets for Facilitators & Participants—includes required paperwork and general program instructions
- On-the-Job Tracking Template—this electronic file helps the facilitator track a participant's activities on a weekly basis
- Participation Report—facilitators receive reports detailing each participant's activities in the online program
- Establishment of an Apprenticeship Program—the National Program Administrator puts you in contact with your local Apprenticeship Training Representative (ATR) and serves as a liaison
- Program Management—facilitators are reminded of paperwork deadlines and specific duties throughout the course of the program and receive quarterly reports detailing OJT and related instruction
Apprenticeship Associates Degree
By completing four years of the EST Training Series with apprenticeship, professionals can convert their training into college credits and earn an Associate of Applied Science in Skilled Trades Degree. Because classes are offered online, you can earn your degree from a well-respected community college from the comfort of your home or office. Eighteen general education hours, taken at your convenience, are offered online from Kirkwood Community College to complete the degree.
For more information about this Associates Degree, contact Kirkwood Community College, Lauri Hughes, Industrial Technologies department at 319.398.4983.
Are you ready to learn more about NSCA Apprenticeship? Call 800.446.NSCA for information on how to get started.