Pre-Apprenticeship

  • Pre-apprenticeship student learns how to use a circular saw to cut a frame wall.
  • Pre-Apprenticeship student learns how to use a TIG welder.
  • Pre-apprenticeship students receive their high reach safety training card and learn how to use a scissor lift.
  • 2023 Pre-apprenticeship students
  • Pre-apprenticeship students receive their CPR and First Aid certifications.
  • Pre-apprenticeship student learns how to use a MIG welder.
  • Pre-apprenticeship student paints a toolbox that he built.
  • Pre-apprenticeship Students work together to complete a carpentry project.
  • Pre-apprenticeship student learns how to weld.
  • Pre-apprenticeship student learns how to use a jig saw.
  • Pre-apprenticeship students get hands-on training with a welder.
  • Pre-apprenticeship student uses a circular saw to cut plywood during the carpentry module.
  • Pre-apprenticeship student enjoys welding.

Building the Workforce in Indian River County

The Youth Guidance Pre-Apprenticeship is a state-registered program to prepare teenagers and young adults (ages 17-24) for careers in the skilled trades.

Students complete 144 hours of classroom and hands-on instruction. They learn the basics of five trades, including: Welding, plumbing, carpentry, HVAC, and electric. We utilize the NCCER Core Curriculum and textbook.

Students who meet the hour requirements receive the following:

  • First Aid and CPR Certification
  • OSHA-10 Certification
  • Fork Lift Training Card
  • High Reach Safety Training
  • Florida Department of Education Completion Certificate
Pre-Apprenticeship Brochure

Helping Youth
Start Careers

To facilitate the Pre-Apprenticeship, Youth Guidance partners with the Indian River County School District, Treasure Coast Technical College, and Florida Training Services, which has 40 years of experience implementing registered pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships across the state.

Once students complete the Youth Guidance Pre-Apprenticeship, they have several options.

If they wish to further their education in a particular trade, we help them to apply for Indian River State College or Treasure Coast Technical College. If their goal is to enter the workforce, we partner with local employers in the trades to provide them with job opportunities.

A graduate of our pre-apprenticeship program starts his career as an apprentice electrician.

Joseph (pictured right) started his career as an electrician after completing our pre-apprenticeship.

Read Joseph’s Story

Applications for 2024

Our 2024 Pre-Apprenticeship class is full and our application is temporarily closed. Starting in fall of 2025, we will add an additional class to meet the growing demand for the program.

Eligibility Requirements: Pre-Apprenticeship students must be residents of Indian River County and between the ages of 17-24.

Classes begin September 10th at Vero Beach High School and will be every Tuesday and Thursday from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Contact Youth Guidance Executive Director, Phil Barnes, for more information at 772-492-3933.

Students in our pre-apprenticehsip program learn how to use a tape measure, T-Square and other tools.

Thank you Pre-Apprenticeship Program Partners!

Become a Pre-Apprenticeship Partner!

Call 772-492-3933