The apprentice program provides two tracks. In Track 1, students will receive academic training required for their trade which will result in a "Certificate of Completion". Track 2 provides selected students the opportunity to obtain an Associates Degree. Participants in both tracks take college level courses taught by Tidewater Community College (TCC) instructors at the shipyard. Under the Apprentice Program, students take trade theory courses, training related to their trade, at the shipyard during normal working hours. Both tracks provide a 40 hour workweek for the student, while the academic training is accomplished after-hours in a non-pay status. The apprentice earns a competitive wage while advancing to the journeymen level following a planned progressive training program. The potential apprentice must be willing and able to attend evening classes one to two nights a week for approximately 3 hours per night. Apprentices are responsible for their own transportation to and from class. All academic tuition and book costs are paid by the shipyard provided the student receives a grade of "C" or better in the course work pursued. Apprentices are employed at the pay rate of WG-1 and receive promotions annually upon successful completion of program requirements. Upon graduation, apprentices are converted to the journeyman level of their trade, which for most trades will be the WG-10.

Other benefits include: paid sick leave and annual leave, 10 paid Federal holidays a year, Health and Life Insurance and a Retirement Plan.

All perspective candidates must:

• Have graduated with a High School diploma or GED equivalent
• Complete the placement testing program given by TCC.
• Be a United States citizen.
• Be able to meet security and medical requirements.