Pre-Apprenticeship Skilled Trades/Manufacturing

Pre-Apprenticeship is a program that is designed to prepare individuals to enter and succeed in a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) and/or employment. Pre-apprenticeship can fast track your way into high-paying jobs that are in demand!

This skilled trades and advanced manufacturing pre-apprenticeship program offers three classes related to a variety of technical skills for this program pathway only. Students will gain the knowledge and skills to enter into a Registered Apprenticeship or entry-level job in the skilled trades and advanced manufacturing occupations. The program meets in-person on the campus of Auburn Hills in a classroom setting. 

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

Program Information

• Cohort 22:  September 21 - October 22, 2026
• Days/Times:  Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Program Length:  5 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 6-week Pre-Apprenticeship Industrial Readiness training program. This program includes the same courses as the Pre-Apprenticeship Skilled Trades/Manufacturing program but includes welding and is one week longer.

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 and OSHA 10.
• 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, 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. 
• Resources:  We understand that you may encounter unexpected challenges. We do our best to help you succeed during the training. We have compiled a resource list with OCC and community-based accommodations, career services, clothing resources, food assistance, technology, and more.
• *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.

Benefits

• Explore and learn about exciting careers.
• Qualify to meet the minimum standards for entrance into a Registered Apprenticeship Program.
• Benefit from classroom and technology-based training.
• Build the literacy, math, English, and career readiness skills employers desire. 
• Network with employers. 

How to Apply

The application process is five simple steps!