Student Internships and Apprenticeships

Start your career as an apprentice

Some questions to ask yourself about getting work experience as an apprentice:

• What is an apprenticeship, and how does it work? An apprenticeship is a structured program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Apprentices are hired by an employer that agrees to sponsor their apprenticeship in their desired program of study. Apprentices will immediately work for their employer and start their on-the-job training with a highly skilled mentor. At the same time, apprentices will enroll in their required program courses at ECC. When classes begin, the apprentice will attend courses at ECC on the designated days and continue working for their employer sponsor, typically when not in school.
• Do apprentices get paid? Yes. ECC has apprenticeship opportunities based on the Learn While You Earn model, which involves paid on-the-job training. In addition, apprentices receive incremental wage increases as their skills and knowledge increase.
• Why should I become an apprentice? You'll receive paid on-the-job training while attending school; your employer sponsor pays for apprentice tuition, books, and fees at ECC. No College Debt! Depending on the apprenticeship program, you'll receive a Basic Vocational Certificate (BVS) or an Associate of Applied Science degree after completing the required coursework. Apprentices will also receive a Certificate of Completion from the Department of Labor for completing a registered apprenticeship. This credential and a degree or certificate from ECC are portable and recognized nationally. Depending on the apprenticeship, you may be guaranteed full-time work up to 2 years after graduation!
• Where can I learn more about apprenticeships and find opportunities? ECC offers career fairs and participates in community events throughout the year where you can learn more about this opportunity. You can also make an appointment with an apprenticeship coordinator to explore your options. 

Opportunities

• Certified Nurse Assistant
• Industrial Manufacturing Technology/CNC
• Cook/Culinary
• HVAC
• Industrial Maintenance Technology
• Firefighter
• Paramedic

Some program offered in partnership with the Industry Consortium for Advanced Technical Training (ICATT)

Getting Started Is Easy!

1. Submit an Apprenticeship Interest Form.
2. An Apprenticeship Coordinator will contact you to schedule an intake appointment.

Broaden your possibilities with an internship

Elgin Community College's robust internship program helps prepare and match well-qualified students with excellent local and national internship opportunities.

Students gain relevant work experience in their programs of study, and companies build a recruiting pipeline with up-and-coming professionals – a win/win for everyone!

Student Intern Benefits

• Apply what you are learning in your courses in a real-world environment
• Increase your experience and skills in your chosen career field
• Build your soft skills and emotional intelligence
• Grow a professional network
• Learn about a company
• Solidify your career goals
• Gain a competitive edge in the current job market

Student internship interest form