What is an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship is an employer-driven, “earn while you learn” model that combines paid, on-the-job training, with job-related academic instruction that prepares apprentices with the skills needed to advance their chosen trade. Apprenticeship is a proven approach for preparing workers for jobs, while meeting the needs of business for a highly-skilled workforce.
About Our Program
From installing and servicing mechanical systems for our homes and businesses, to maintaining and powering our electrical systems, skilled trades workers touch many aspects of our lives. The demand for skilled-labor professionals is at an all-time high as baby boomers are transitioning into retirement. Be part of the solution to the skilled-labor shortage in America, while earning high wages and providing in-demand services to the public!
The apprenticeship training program, run by the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS), operates a total of seven training programs across the state. Both registered and non-registered apprentices can apply. Non-registered apprentices apply as an extension student.
Click below on a location near you for registration dates and locations, and tuition information.
A.I. Prince Technical High School, Hartford
Bristol Technical Education Center, Bristol
Bullard-Havens Technical High School, Bridgeport
Eli Whitney Technical High School, Hamden
Henry Abbott Technical High School, Danbury
Kaynor Technical High School, Waterbury
Norwich Technical High School, Norwich
Apprenticeship and Extension Courses
Our program provides apprentices with a comprehensive knowledge of their selected career. Students taking all coursework required for their license category graduate with:
- All related instruction hours needed for their trade area
- Knowledge and skills necessary to get licensed with the CT-Department of Consumer Protection
Non-registered apprentices may apply as an extension student. Extension students may use the earned course credit to future apprenticeship requirements, or they may take the course just to learn new skills or gain information. Students under 18 years of age may apply with parental permission.
Learn more about apprenticeship training at the Connecticut Department of Labor website.
Please Note: Registration will be in person at each adult education schools. Some classes that are Asynchronous or Virtual require all students to be in-person for Mid-Terms and Finals
View the Adult Education Fall 2025-2026 Course Offerings
Licensed Trade Areas
CTECS Apprenticeship Related Instruction program is fully approved by the CT-Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship Training in the Licensed Occupational Construction trades.
We provide related instruction for all license categories in the following areas.
Click on the trade area to view an information program packet.
Non-Licensed Trade Areas
CTECS is fully approved to provide related instruction training in all non-licensed, manufacturing related instruction areas. Manufacturing Related Instruction Programs are flexible, both online and instructor-led to offer the best possible approach to interactive learning.
Manufacturing programs are offered at Bristol Technical Education Center and Kaynor Technical High School only.
Online Programs Available!
CTECS’ Department of Labor-approved apprenticeship curriculum reflects the latest in industry standards and trends. Our new online programming allows apprentices to take any CTECS-offered course without the need for travel, limiting exposure to COVID-19, influenza, and other germs. We offer courses in Barbering, Heating & Cooling, Electrical, Sheet Metal, and Plumbing.
Online classes are offered real-time, providing face-to-face interaction opportunities between students and instructors. Technology tutoring and support is available. Plus, we offer the lowest tuition rates in Connecticut!
Tuition Information
If you are a registered apprentice with a valid state apprentice ID card listing your current employer and are taking a state apprentice program class:
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- Tuition: $325 per in-person course; $345 for online course*
- Non-refundable Registration and Technology Fee: $50
If you are a registered apprentice taking a course outside of your state apprentice program or are not a registered apprentice:
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- Tuition: $350 in-person course; $370 for online course*
- Non-refundable Registration and Technology Fee: $50
Certified bank checks or money orders are accepted. No personal checks, cash or credit cards will be accepted. Please make certified bank check or money orders payable to: Treasurer, State of Connecticut.
*A $20 Tech Tutor fee applies to online classes. The Tech Tutor provides onboarding for new students and emergency technology support during classes.
Part-Time Evening Apprentice and Extension Course Information and Registration
Fall Semester courses commence in September. Registration opens in late August.
Spring Semester courses commence in January. Registration opens in early January.
What makes CTECS’ Apprenticeship Program unique?
CTECS curriculum is fully approved by the State of Connecticut. We work hand-in-hand with the CT Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship Training, and the CT Department of Consumer Protection Occupational Licensing Department to ensure coursework taken is viable and what is required for both industry needs, as well as licensure.
CTECS offers low tuition cost for students, when compared to other schools, and coursework is available at seven convenient locations across the state.
We utilize only CT-DCP licensed instructors with real world experience in the trade they teach, and our own in-house OSHA instructors.
Our Mission
The mission of the Connecticut Technical Educational and Career System (CTECS)is to provide a world-class, unique and rigorous learning environment for high school students and adult learners.
The Connecticut Technical Educational and Career System continues to be a leading force in the state providing a unique and rigorous learning environment that focuses on both academic and career technical education and meets the needs of Connecticut’s employers.