HIGH SCHOOL TO CAREER PATHWAY

Pre-Apprenticeship → Registered Apprenticeship

Earn. Learn. Build Your Future.

Start preparing for a career before you graduate. Through collaboration between Cape Fear Community College, New Hanover County Schools, and Pender County Schools, students can gain practical skills, connect with local employers, and transition into a paid Registered Apprenticeship.

High school pre-apprentice working in hands-on trade lab at CFCC
High School Dual Enrollment Opportunity

What is a Pre-Apprenticeship?

A pre-apprenticeship lets high school students age 16 and up take free college classes at CFCC. You get hands-on job training while you are still in high school. Next, you can step right into a paid apprenticeship with a local employer. You earn a real paycheck while learning your trade, and you finish school with zero student debt.

  • Tuition-Free Coursework: Take eligible CFCC classes while still in high school.
  • Direct Employer Connections: Meet regional employers actively seeking apprentice talent.
  • Tuition Waiver Eligibility: Lay the groundwork for a full NC Community College tuition waiver post-graduation.

Your 3–Step Pathway to Success

1

Start in High School

Register as a pre-apprentice (ages 16+) during your junior or senior year. Take approved Career & Technical Education (CTE) or tuition-free Career & College Promise (CCP) classes at CFCC.

2

Graduate & Transition

Graduate high school and secure employment with a CFCC Apprenticeship Employer Partner within 120 days to receive a state-sponsored tuition waiver for apprenticeship courses at CFCC.

3

Earn While You Learn

Register as an apprentice after graduating high school. Work as a paid employee receiving structured on-the-job training while completing college classes at CFCC, culminating in a US Department of Labor Journeyworker Credential.

Available Pre-Apprenticeship Focus Areas

High school students can jumpstart their career training in many areas of study.

  • Accounting and Finance
    CCP
  • Automotive
    CCP | CTE
  • Carpentry & Construction
    CCP | CTE
  • Diesel and Heavy Equipment
    CCP
  • Early Childhood Education
    CCP | CTE
  • Electrical
    CTE
  • HVAC
    CCP
  • Information Technology
    CCP
  • Mechatronics
    CCP
  • Welding
    CCP
CCP Career & College Promise
CTE High School CTE Coursework
CCP | CTE Available in Both Pathways

Financial Support & Tuition Waivers

North Carolina and CFCC offer substantial financial benefits to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for apprentices.

NC Pre-Apprentice / Youth Apprentice Tuition Waiver

Waives tuition fees for required CFCC coursework while in the apprenticeship program through two pathways:

Option 1: Pre-Apprentice Transition

  • Complete a qualifying pre-apprenticeship in high school.
  • Graduate from high school.
  • Hired by a CFCC Apprenticeship Employer Partner and register as an apprentice within 120 days of graduation.
Option 2: Direct Youth High School Apprentice

  • Obtain employment with a CFCC Apprenticeship Employer Partner while in high school.
  • Register as a youth apprentice prior to graduation.
  • Continue CFCC instruction seamlessly post-graduation.

Note: While tuition is waived, students remain responsible for ancillary fees (books, technology, parking).

CFCC Entry Support Stipend

$2,000

Eligible apprentices demonstrating financial need can receive a one-time stipend of $2,000 to cover entry expenses:

  • Required Books & Class Supplies
  • Transportation & Travel Assistance
  • Industry Tools & Specialty Equipment
  • Required Uniforms & Work Clothing

Consult an apprenticeship advisor for more details and to apply.

Separate from state tuition waivers. Funding is limited; eligibility guidelines apply.

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