But if the U.S. follows the European model, the room for growth is huge. The apprenticeship system in Europe has deep roots throughout the economy. In Germany, apprentices make up about 4% of the workforce.
How Does it Work?
The program in Europe lasts for two years. An apprentice spends three days a week on the job and two days studying in the classroom. After this period, companies require that the apprentice stay in the company for a year. They also have an opportunity to apply for different specializations in the company.
Al Crook is a human resources executive at Zurich North America. He said that the company thinks that it is another way to develop and attract talent for the industry. He thinks that the proofs from Europe show that it is a safe test to run.
Zurich Insurance is sharing its model with other companies. They already worked with pharmacy giant Walgreens and the financial consultancy Accenture. These companies are already developing their own plans for apprentices.
Questions from the American People:
- American college students generally have the opportunity to intern for more than one company. Would apprenticing with one company be more beneficial?
- Would having a job that you’re required to stay at for a year after your training be more beneficial to job hunters? Or are graduates better off looking for work when they graduate?
