Using apprenticeships to upskill your workforce

It's no secret that attracting and retaining top talent is a major hurdle for businesses today. The Great Resignation shook things up, and with technology constantly evolving, keeping teams skilled and motivated is a real uphill battle. High turnover isn’t just disruptive, it seriously impacts an organization’s ability to get things done and ultimately, the bottom line.

The good news is there's a proven solution: apprenticeships. This model benefits everyone – it provides top-notch training for your existing employees while giving them valuable hands-on experience. Let’s explore how apprenticeships can help your organization build a competitive advantage by upskilling your current workforce.

Apprenticeships don’t just help develop skills in new hires; they’re also a powerful tool for upskilling and promoting your existing employees. By investing in your current workforce, you can fill higher-level positions internally and backfill those roles with entry-level talent who can grow within the company. This approach not only reduces turnover but also creates a dynamic, growth-oriented workplace culture.

What’s the difference between apprenticeships and internships?

Apprenticeships and internships are both valuable work-based learning experiences, but they differ significantly.

• Apprenticeships, especially those registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, are structured training programs combining on-the-job training with instruction. Apprentices are paid employees and often receive benefits.

• Internships, on the other hand, are generally shorter-term experiences, often for academic credit, that provide exposure to a particular field or profession and may or may not be paid.

The advantages of apprenticeships for employers

1. Increased employee retention

Investing in your employees through apprenticeships fosters a sense of loyalty and engagement. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 91% of apprentices stay with their employer after completing their program. Employees who feel valued and see opportunities for growth within the company are less likely to seek opportunities elsewhere, reducing turnover costs.

2. Building a future-ready workforce

Technological advancements require businesses to adapt quickly, often necessitating new skill sets. Apprenticeships enable employers to:

• Train employees in emerging technologies and methodologies.

• Create a pipeline of skilled talent tailored to organizational needs.

• Address skill gaps within the team, boosting overall productivity.

Customized training through apprenticeships ensures your workforce remains competitive and well-prepared for industry changes.

3. Cost-effective talent development

Hiring external talent for highly specialized roles can be expensive and time-consuming. Apprenticeships offer a more cost-effective alternative by:

• Reducing recruitment costs by training existing employees instead of hiring new ones.

• Minimizing onboarding time since apprentices are already familiar with your company’s processes.

• Allowing businesses to mold talent to align with their culture and goals.

Upskilling current employees through apprenticeships eliminates the need for costly external hires while boosting internal expertise

4. Increased productivity and innovation

Employees who undergo apprenticeship programs are more likely to be highly motivated and productive. According to the White House, for every dollar spent on apprenticeship, employers get an average of $1.47 back in increased productivity. Additionally, apprentices often bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the workplace, driving business growth.

Why apprenticeships are a strategic advantage

Beyond the immediate benefits of upskilling employees, apprenticeships provide long-term value by helping organizations:

• Adapt to workforce trends: As industries evolve, apprenticeships ensure businesses can quickly reskill employees to meet new demands.

• Enhance employer branding: Companies offering apprenticeship programs position themselves as forward-thinking and employee-focused, which can attract top-tier talent.

• Support diversity and inclusion: Apprenticeships create opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds to enter and thrive in the workforce, enriching company culture.

ACI Learning Tech Academy apprenticeships

Sold on the value of apprenticeships? So are we: ACI Learning announced this year that its Tech Academy received designation as a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). This national approval marks a significant step towards advancing IT education, creating opportunities for aspiring professionals, and fostering collaborations that contribute to the growth of the IT workforce on a national scale.

For employers, this means a chance to partner with ACI Learning to upskill your current workforce through structured, high-impact training programs.

Employers that would like to participate can inquire here.

Individuals that would like to enroll in the apprenticeship program can fill out our apprenticeship application.