NJ Essex County Schools of Technology, Newark Tech: Apprenticeship Presentation to Senior Class

Patricia Moran, Director of Apprenticeship Programs and Bob Lipka Apprenticeship Field Manager from NJMEP were invited to visit the Newark Tech campus to meet the senior graduating class.  Carmen Morales, Principal, and Jenabu Williams, Vice Principal, gave Patricia and Bob the opportunity to meet approximately 100 students. The audience consisted of the senior class and the conversation centered around New Jersey manufacturing career opportunities.  

Vice Principal Williams expressed the importance of exploring varied career options and how it is important to learn from those who have worked in their respective business fields.  His enthusiasm and introduction provided Patricia and Bob with an extremely attentive audience.  They shared their own business and career experiences regarding how they made life choices which shaped career development and how these choices lead to their present roles.  Patricia Moran then presented an overview of the manufacturing industry and the types of career advancement options that exist in today’s advanced manufacturing companies.  She also shared the associated salaries for these types of positions which are incredibly competitive and attractive income opportunities.   

The presentation then shifted focus to relay the concept of Apprenticeship programs, how they work and the opportunity they provide for rapid employment for qualified individuals. Patricia explained how NJMEP helps individuals like them explore positions within the manufacturing sector and what it means to be accepted into US DOL certified Apprenticeship training programs. A US DOL certified apprenticeship training program provides valued industry credentials that can advance their careers and support additional growth opportunities.

After a question and answer session, the students had an opportunity to express their interest in pursuing potential careers in manufacturing. At the end of the presentation, 12 students showed interest and were signed up for a follow-up to be assessed later for qualification into registered Apprenticeship programs organized and delivered by NJMEP.

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