Looking to recruit, train, and upskill new or existing employees in direct service roles? Become an employer sponsor with the PLACE Hub! The three PLACE Hub apprenticeships equip apprentices with essential job readiness skills and empower them to become effective practitioners in Care Economy fields.
Email apprenticeship@fhi360.org to schedule a conversation with an NIWL apprenticeship specialist.
Apprenticeship is a proven method for cultivating a stable and highly qualified workforce. By creating a credentialed, alternative pathway to enter the field, employers can see an increase in the quality and size of their applicant pool, as well as an increase in retention. Investing your time in apprenticeship creates a more committed and productive workforce.
Myths about Apprenticeships
Many employers believe apprenticeship isn’t right for them because of the following myths and misunderstandings:
- Apprenticeships are too hard to start.
- Reality: FHI 360 will walk you through the sign-up process for apprenticeship programs already registered with the Department of Labor.
- Apprenticeships cost too much.
- Reality: Through the Apprenticeship Builds America 2 grant, FHI 360 has the funding to cover the costs of apprenticeship and can award $2,300 to employers to support start up.
- It’s only for large companies.
- Reality: There are no business size requirements for having an apprentice!
- It’s only for unions/certain industries/other types of companies.
- Reality: Apprenticeships are rapidly expanding into new fields and industries as they present an alternative pathway to fulfilling careers that benefits both employers and career seekers.
- I don’t have time to manage the program.
- Reality: While apprenticeships do require time, that time is invested into your employee’s professional development, increasing their skills and strengthening your organizational health for the long term.
Mutual Commitment
FHI 360 serves as the supporting partner for the PLACE Hub. We work with employers to ensure a positive experience for both the apprentice and the employer.
Employer sponsors and FHI 360 have a mutual commitment to provide a supportive, educational experience for apprentices. FHI 360 provides training, resources, and ongoing support, while employers recruit, employ, supervise, and mentor apprentices. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and skilled workforce, leading to better outcomes for both career seekers and employers in the United States.
The Apprenticeship Commitment
Apprentices commit to 2,000 hours* of on-the-job learning, along with 150-165 hours of related coursework.
*Existing employees may receive a signed endorsement verifying previous on-the-job learning hours for up to 1,000 hours of past work.
What apprentices learn: Apprentices will work through an online learning series tailored to their profession, including topics such as positive youth development, case management, group facilitation, career pathways, and more. See each apprenticeship page for more details on each apprenticeship’s curriculum.
To learn more about becoming an employer that sponsors an apprentice in your organization, schedule a conversation with an NIWL apprenticeship specialist by emailing apprenticeship@fhi360.org
