Sunday, April 26, 2026
WI apprentices gain new path to associate degree
As part of National Apprenticeship Week (April 26–May 2), Chippewa Valley Technical College, in partnership with the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS), is announcing an advancement that will help Wisconsin apprentices earn associate degrees more quickly and affordably.
Individuals who have completed a Wisconsin-registered apprenticeship can now apply their knowledge directly toward an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. If an apprentice has completed at least 400 hours of paid, DWD-approved classroom instruction, that learning will automatically count toward the degree regardless of whether the instruction was delivered by a WTCS college or another approved institution.
Apprenticeship completers automatically receive 39 of the 60 credits required for the Technical Studies – Journeyworker AAS degree. To complete the degree, apprentices need 15 general education credits and six elective credits. The remaining 21 credits can be completed at CVTC.
CVTC’s apprenticeship programs connect students with paid, hands-on training across dozens of high-demand fields, partnering with regional employers to deliver thousands of hours of on-the-job and classroom instruction that leads directly to skilled careers.
“Apprenticeships have always been about real-world learning that leads directly to careers,” said Julie Sherman, associate dean of apprenticeship at CVTC. “This advancement recognizes the value of that experience and makes it easier for apprentices to build on their training, earn a degree, and continue growing in high-demand fields.”
Wisconsin has been a national leader in apprenticeship since 1911, when the Wisconsin Technical College System and the state's registered apprenticeship model were established. In 1991, Wisconsin introduced the first Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program in the U.S. Another option is the growing Certified Pre-Apprenticeship program, which prepares aspiring apprentices to enter a registered apprenticeship program. In recent years, apprenticeship participation has reached record levels, as more employers and learners join the system.
“Apprentice earnings continue to reflect strong demand among employers in Wisconsin,” said Layla Merrifield, president of Wisconsin Technical College System. “Now with the option to more easily turn their journeyworker credential into an Associate of Applied Science degree, apprentices will be even better equipped for future success.”
Recently, apprenticeship opportunities have expanded beyond the trades to include such fields as health care, information technology, human services and education.
Statewide, apprentices who complete their related instruction through a Wisconsin technical college earn a median salary of $93,000 (WTCS Apprenticeship Completion Report, 2023-2024).
