Apprenticeships

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Not everyone wants to go to traditional school after separating from the service. Some veterans prefer to go directly into the work force to earn a wage or to a training program. Good news for those who still want to use their GI Bills and participate in some type of training, apprenticeships allow you to do both. In fact, there are many registered apprenticeships that will allow you to continue along the with the same pathway you took while on active duty and receive GI Bill benefits. If you are still on active duty, and are in the Navy, the Marine Corps, or the Coast Guard, you may have a United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) available for you to participate in. Yes, I will write a post on USMAP in the future.
Apprenticeship programs last for a specified period of time in which you work under a master tradesman. Training can last up to six years, but you are earning a wage and benefits (there is usually a period of time between starting the apprenticeship and getting benefits, around six months to a year) at the same time. According to the Department of Labor, "Apprentices take classes while they are working, combining theoretical and hands-on learning. At the end of the apprenticeship, apprentices earn industry-recognized credentials and in many cases can receive college credits that may lead to an associate or bachelor’s degree."
You will need to complete assessments throughout the program, mandatory testing, and work inspections conducted by a master tradesman. The formal classroom training (usually paid for by the employer) that is part of an apprenticeship is often conducted through the local community college. Classes will commonly include general education (math and English) and classes based on theory and applied skill. This means that you will need to commit extra time to studying and applying your newly learned skills. Plus, you will need study time to prepare for any state-required licensing exams. As time progresses, your goal will be to earn journeyman or master tradesman status. This equates to more $$$.
Apprenticeship programs can be found within a wide range of work-types, such as construction, manufacturing, and health care. Some companies that offer apprenticeship programs are Enterprise Rent-A-Car, UPS, and CVS. Don't forget union options also. Many service members I have worked with find the brotherhood camaraderie they felt in the military within the union environment.
The DOL has organized information specifically for the veteran population interested in pursuing registered apprenticeships. You can find an apprenticeship on the My Next Move website (https://www.mynextmove.org/vets/). Scroll down on the left-hand side of the page and click on "Registered Apprenticeships" (or follow along with me on the video).
GI BILL Applicability
Both Post-9/11 and MGIB can be used for apprenticeships. If you want more help determining which one would be a better choice, take a look at the GI Bill website to determine current payment rates or call your old (or any) education center.
Post-9/11 GI Bill pays a scaled housing allowance and you earn wages from the company training you at the same time.
Post-9/11 payments for apprenticeship programs:
  • 100% of the housing stipend for the first 6 months of training
  • 80% for the second 6 months
  • 60% for the third 6 months
  • 40% for the fourth 6 months
  • 20% for the remainder
You do not need to remain on the GI Bill for the duration of the program. As the housing stipend decreases, typically your wages increase.
Current MGIB payments (2017-2018):
  • First six months=$1446.00
  • Second six months=$1060.40
  • Remaining training time=$674.80
Websites of Importance
Find an Apprenticeship
GI Bill Approved Apprenticeships
Available Occupations
DOL Information for Vets
For a more detailed explanation and information regarding registered apprenticeships, visit the Department of Labor's website.


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