FSCJ Partners with U.S. Navy for Apprenticeship Program

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) has been awarded the U.S. Navy contract in partnership with Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) for their apprenticeship program. The program offers apprentices up to four years of tuition-free education and training in one of eight skilled trades while they also earn an hourly wage and benefits as an FRCSE employee at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville.

Following acceptance into the program, apprentices are employed by FRCSE while completing courses to earn credit toward FSCJ’s Engineering Technology Support Specialist Technical Certificate (T.C.). Students benefit from a combination of college-level classes with hands-on training that helps them develop the required skills for a trades career.

“The FRCSE Apprenticeship Program offers an outstanding opportunity for individuals with a high school diploma and no or little industry experience to earn while they learn,” said Dean of Engineering and Industry Douglas Brauer, Ph.D.

Apprentices will work side by side with experienced FRCSE employees who teach and mentor them to step into a variety of positions such as machinists, sheet metal mechanics, aircraft mechanics, aircraft electricians, pneumatic/hydraulic system mechanics, electronics mechanics, aircraft engine mechanics and painters.

“FSCJ has deep appreciation for our military community, including active duty, veterans, spouses and dependents,” said College President John Avendano, Ph.D. “This program is a great example of how FSCJ works with engaged partners to develop impactful opportunities that help our students from the military community throughout their educational and career preparation journey.”

Following completion of the T.C. and apprenticeship program, apprentices are guaranteed a position in the federal government.