The American Staffing Association's Workforce Monitor survey revealed 62 percent of respondents believe apprenticeships and other on-the-job training programs—rather than a college education—make jobseekers more employable, according to www.constructiondive.com.
Sixty-eight percent of more than 2,000 respondents said learning a trade would help someone get a job more than pursuing a bachelor's degree, and 69 percent believe a college degree isn't as valuable as it once was.
Additionally, 71 percent of those polled do not think completing an apprenticeship would limit someone's future employment options, and 60 percent disagreed with the idea that earn-while-learning programs generally lead to lower salaries than jobs requiring a college degree. Nine out of 10 respondents said apprenticeships can lead to new careers, prepare people for jobs and allow them to learn interesting trades.
The number of U.S. apprenticeships reportedly is increasing, which may have been prompted in part by the Department of Labor's push for such programs. Only 27 occupations in the U.S. reportedly make regular use of apprenticeships; however, apprenticeships have expanded beyond the trades and are being employed in white-collar fields, as well.
Some employers have been placing more value on candidates' skills rather than their degrees and certifications, using apprenticeship and training programs to prepare those who do not have the required experience for the job.
