Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program holds signing day for local trade students

On Tuesday, the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program held its first-ever “Signing Day” to get high school students interested in trade careers. The event was held at the Brighton campus of Monroe Community College.

The Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program was created to help solve the problem of a shortage of skilled labor workers in the area. The program was created by the Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA) in partnership with Monroe Community College and other community members. Through the program, local high school juniors and seniors begin a collaboration with a local company and work while also attending school. Their work earns them credit towards an apprenticeship, and they are also paid.

Over 100 high school students applied for the program. 54 of these students were in attendance on the day of the event, and 36 of them were matched with potential employers. Matched students signed an agreement with their employers.

Micro Instrument Corp employee Kyle Jones said the program is massive for local companies and the community. Patrick Childs, who attends Webster Thomas High School, was chosen for one of the apprenticeships. He said he was excited because the program allowed him to explore and research other companies, and luckily he was selected for the one he wanted.