Ogeechee Technical College (OTC) proudly participated in a Pre-Apprenticeship signing ceremony at Claxton Poultry, marking a significant milestone for two local high school students. This collaborative initiative, led by Evans Regional College and Career Academy, Claxton Poultry, and OTC, provides students with hands-on career training while completing their high school education.
Oscar Morales-Arroyo, a student at Claxton High School, is dual enrolled in OTC’s Electrical & Industrial Systems Technology Program and is gaining real-world experience as an electrician pre-apprentice at Claxton Poultry. Alan Baxcajay-Jimenez, also a Claxton High School student, is dual enrolled in OTC’s Diesel Technology Program and is working as a diesel technician pre-apprentice.
A pre-apprenticeship program differs from a registered US Department of Labor (DOL) apprenticeship program in a number of ways. A minimum number of on-the-job training hours is not required, the program can be tailored to the unique requirements of the business and the student, it is much shorter in time frame than a traditional apprenticeship program, and it is not formalized with the US DOL.
“It is a fluid working relationship between the student’s high school, Ogeechee Tech, and local business which allows students to learn skills in the area of dual enrollment that they are pursuing,” said Jan Moore, VP for Economic Development. “As the sponsor of this pre-apprenticeship, we are excited to see these students take advantage of this opportunity to gain both education and industry experience simultaneously. This program is a great example of how partnerships between education and industry can create pathways for student success.”
Ogeechee Tech’s partnership with the pre-apprenticeship program exemplifies their commitment to workforce development by preparing students for high-demand careers while strengthening local industry partnerships.
