For some high school students, deciding what to do after graduation is difficult. Head straight into the workforce? Join the military? Go away to college or choose an institution near home? But for David Mooshool, joining an apprenticeship program with the College of DuPage (COD) was an easy decision. Because David was involved in a Youth Apprentice Program during his senior year, he had already spent time learning about careers in manufacturing and gained hands-on experience that helped him feel confident in his choice.

During his senior year, David joined the new Youth Apprenticeship Program (YAP) at York High School in Elmhurst, which allowed him to get hands-on experience working in manufacturing. After completing course requirements in the morning, David traveled to a manufacturing facility in the afternoon to work with Simplex System Controls Inc. Through his placement with the Youth Apprenticeship Program, David rotated through roles at Simplex System Control Inc., including shipping/receiving, assembly, and quality control. Participation in a YAP provides high school students with valuable experience, allowing them to explore careers while earning wages.

“I enjoyed my work experience, and toward the end of my senior year of high school, my manufacturing teacher mentioned that I could continue with my work and education through the Project Hire-Ed program at COD. It seemed like an amazing program to be a part of, and after talking with counselors, I decided to enroll after graduation.”

Youth Apprenticeships also give apprentices a head start on their careers. When David entered the Project Hire-Ed apprenticeship program at the College of DuPage, he had already earned over 600 hours that could be counted towards his on-the-job training hours required for the Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program with the College of DuPage as an Electromechanical Technician.

David expects to complete his coursework at the College of DuPage in December 2024, earning a certificate in Applied Technology, then, he plans to continue his education at COD to earn an Associate’s degree in Manufacturing Technology.

“COD is helping me toward my goals by giving me the education and skills I need to perform well at my company. So far, all of my professors at COD have been great. They have many years of work/teaching experience and are very good at explaining confusing topics.”

The transition from being a Youth Apprentice to starting college and joining a Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship program at College of DuPage is seamless, as the team with Project Hire-Ed is there to guide the employer and apprentice in every step. David advises anyone considering a Youth Apprenticeship or Registered Apprenticeship with the College of DuPage: “Definitely do it!”