Pre-Apprenticeship
Jumpstart
Your Career
with advanced
training
and industry
certifications
Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship
Launched in 2021, the Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship is a state-registered program designed to prepare teenagers and young adults (ages 17-24) for careers in construction.
Students complete 144 hours of classroom training and hands-on instruction. They learn the basics of five trades, including: Carpentry, electric, plumbing, HVAC, and welding. 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
Culinary Arts Pre-Apprenticeship
New for 2025: The Culinary Pre-Apprenticeship prepares teenagers and young adults (ages 17-24) for careers in the thriving local hospitality and restaurant industry.
Students complete 144 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on learning. Our culinary instructor uses the curriculum from the American Culinary Federation. Students who complete the hour requirements will receive the following:
- ServSafe Food Safety Certification
- ServSafe Food Manager Certification
- American Culinary Federation Certification
- Florida Department of Education Completion Certificate
Building the Workforce in Indian River County
To facilitate Pre-Apprenticeship programs, 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 one of our Pre-Apprenticeship programs, 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 Florida Training Services and local employers to help students secure full-time employment and continue their education in a registered apprenticeship program.
Joseph (pictured right) started his career as an electrician after completing our pre-apprenticeship.
2025 Applications
Enrollment for our 2025 Pre-Apprenticeship classes is now open. Classes are expected to begin in September at our newly renovated facility, located in downtown Vero Beach at 1028 20th Place.
To enroll, please fill out one of the application forms below. 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.
Thank You Pre-Apprenticeship Program Partners
