Youth Guidance launches
pre-apprenticeship program

This fall, Indian River County youth ages 16-24 will have the opportunity to explore a career in Welding, Carpentry, HVAC, Electrical and Plumbing - for free! The Youth Guidance Pre-Apprenticeship program is the first of its kind in Indian River County. It covers basic tools and materials while offering an in-depth overview of each trade.

Students will participate in a proven curriculum from Florida Training Services. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of succeeding in school while teaching students the qualifications and skills they need to secure a meaningful career within the trades.

The program will begin on September 7th and conclude on May 26th. Classes will take place every Tuesday and Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at United Way of Indian River County. Students will engage in textbook learning as well as hands-on activities with basic hand tools. Once a month on Saturday, Youth Guidance will transport students to a trade facility Fort Pierce. Here the students will learn how to weld, drive a fork lift, and complete projects that utilize heavy machinery.

Upon successful completion of the eight-month program, students will obtain six certifications including the OSHA certificate, First Aid and CPR certificate, High Reach Safety Training certificate, Forklift Safety Training certificate, National Center for Construction Education Research certificate (NCCER), and the Florida Department of Education Pre-Apprenticeship Completion certificate.