Pre-Apprenticeship
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
Helping Youth Start Careers
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.
Joseph (pictured right) started his career as an electrician after completing our pre-apprenticeship.
2025 Application
Enrollment for our 2025 Pre-Apprenticeship class is now open. Classes will begin in September at our facility, located in downtown Vero Beach at 1028 20th Place.
To enroll, please fill out the application form. Then our instructor will be in contact with you to set up an in-person interview to go over class expectations and scheduling.
Eligibility Requirements: Pre-Apprenticeship students must be residents of Indian River County and be between the ages of 17-24.
Contact Youth Guidance Executive Director, Phil Barnes, for more information at 772-492-3933.
Pre-Apprenticeship Program Partners
