Pre-Apprenticeship Industrial Readiness

The Industrial Readiness Training program is a comprehensive course designed to provide participants with the foundational technical skills, knowledge and practical expertise essential for entry into high-demand skilled trades jobs. The curriculum features specialized instruction focused on maritime and defense industrial applications. This program provides critical hands-on experience, ensuring students completing the program are well-rounded and immediately ready for technical roles supporting the defense industrial base, direct entry into a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) or employment in the advanced manufacturing industry.

This pre-apprenticeship program is a great starting point and serves as a pathway to an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship is an "earn and learn model" where you start working and earning an income the first day on the job!

• Average entry-level wage range:  $18 per hour and up

Program Information

• Cohort 2:  June 22 - July 31, 2026
• Days/Times:  Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Program Length:  6 weeks
• Location:  Auburn Hills Campus 
• Cost:  The program will be provided to the participant at no cost.
• Eligibility:  You must be a minimum of 18 years of age or will turn 18 years of age prior to the completion of the program.
  
  Note:  We also offer a 5-week Pre-Apprenticeship Skilled Trades/Manufacturing training program. This program includes the same classes as the Pre-Apprenticeship Industrial Readiness program but excludes welding and is one week shorter.

What to Expect

• Focus:  The Skilled Trades program is designed to give you the knowledge, skills and experience necessary for entry-level positions. Course content covers applied technical math, blueprint reading, precision measurement and inspection (metrology), career readiness, OSHA 10 and welding.
• Course details: For specific details about courses and descriptions included in the training, please review the program description.
• Certifications*:  OSHA 10, Mike Rowe Work Ethic, Precision Measurement and Inspection
  Note:  Oakland Community College has worked with Michigan Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to create the Michigan Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate (MARC). This pre-apprenticeship in skill trades has a MARC Level I endorsement.  This level indicates a person (pre-apprentice) is ready to enter a RAP within a specific industry. Completing a MARC Level I endorsed program can significantly benefit both the individual and the employer. For the individual, eligibility for an interview. For employer RAP sponsors, it speeds up the hiring process by providing a pool of pre-qualified candidates.
• Real-world experience:  In addition to instruction time and dedicated lab experience, you will participate in industry-led tours and employer interviews. Attendance is required in order for successful completion of the program. 
• *Note:  individuals who successfully complete the program, are eligible to receive up to eight credits at OCC. Plus, 120 Related Technical Instruction (RTI) hours towards a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

How to Apply

The application process is five simple steps!

Start Your Someday Today!