On-the-job training programs help individuals gain skills and work experience without needing to leave the workforce. These training services also usually pay you for your work while you learn from professionals in your industry.
Overall, on-the-job training programs can help:
- Current employees upskill and reskill to obtain promotions and/or an increase in salary
- College-aged individuals get the education they need without dealing with high tuition costs or years of school
- Employers train workers with the specific skills they need
A job training program is a viable alternative to college. It can help you qualify for a high-salary job in little to no time or cost. Some participants can even earn a six-figure income after completing career training. Read on to learn about types of on-the-job training programs, how to find them, and more.
What are on-the-job training programs?
On-the-job training is when a company trains a person for a role while paying them for their work. The individual acquires new knowledge and skills in the workplace and learns how to handle real-life work scenarios. In most cases, they learn from other professionals in their field.
There are several types of job training programs, including:
- Apprenticeships - Workers develop practical skills and complete projects under the supervision of a mentor or manager.
- Internships - Paid or unpaid interns work for a business temporarily to practice applying their skills in professional environments.
- Mentoring - People receive one-on-one career guidance and informal assistance from experts in their field.
- Coaching - Skilled experts help job seekers explore career opportunities and share resources.
- Shadowing - Participants observe the daily activities and responsibilities of more experienced workers.
- Planned progression - Employers gradually give workers more responsibilities to help them upskill.
- Job rotation - Workers rotate between lateral positions on a team or in different departments.
- Understudy programs - Trainees observe their supervisors and learn how to handle their responsibilities.
Why on-the-job training matters
Effective on-the-job training programs are mutually beneficial for companies and workers. Companies recruit talent for in-demand skills. Workers find businesses that invest in their career growth. Let’s take a closer look at why job training programs matter.
1. College is not accessible to everyone
For many young people, college is unattainable. They’ve seen how college graduates with student loan debt(opens new window) have had to delay or give up significant life milestones. For example, 50% of adults with student loan debt have delayed home ownership(opens new window).
Young people question whether a four-year degree is worth taking on student loans that could put them in a financial bind for years. The average cost of college is $38,270 per year(opens new window) and increases annually. The Education Data Initiative estimates that the price of a bachelor’s degree can exceed $500,000 when factoring in student loan interest and loss of income.
Millions of Americans are reconsidering the value of a college degree. According to a 2023 survey by The Wall Street Journal and NORC(opens new window), 56% of respondents believe attending college is “not worth the cost because people often graduate without specific job skills and with a large amount of debt to pay off.”
College is one path to a high-paying job, but there are others. For some, the high college tuition isn’t the only reason to explore other options.
2. College is not ideal for building work experience
College isn’t an ideal learning environment for every person or career. For example, there aren’t many opportunities to learn on the job and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations. Students may also have limited opportunities to develop projects they can showcase in portfolios.
On-the-job training is one of the main factors employers look at when hiring. According to a 2024 report by Intelligent(opens new window), 80% of employers value experience over formal education, and 55% have eliminated bachelor’s degree requirements. College students who don’t receive training in the workplace may face significant challenges landing entry-level tech jobs and other positions.
A lack of career training can also affect students’ self-confidence and limit their opportunities for professional growth. Many college graduates feel unprepared to enter the workforce because they need more on-the-job experience. In a 2022 Cengage employability survey(opens new window), 53% of recent college graduates didn’t apply for an entry-level job because they didn’t feel qualified enough.
With an on-the-job training program, you can gain the skills and experience you need in a matter of months. Many, like Multiverse’s tech apprenticeships, pay you while you learn. On-the-job training programs give new and seasoned workers hands-on learning experiences. Workers can learn from professionals in their field and decide if their chosen career path is right for them.
3. On-the-job training fills skills gaps
Companies still need skilled workers, but you don’t have to go to college to be successful in your career. Businesses often disregard college education requirements to fill talent gaps for in-demand skills.
For example, many companies open software engineering and data science roles to anyone who can demonstrate their skills or eagerness to learn. Software Engineers and Data Scientists are in high demand, and companies are widening their pool of qualified candidates.
Job training programs help companies fill roles where there aren’t enough skilled workers to meet hiring demands. According to Springboard’s The State of the Workforce Skills Gap 2024(opens new window), 70% of corporate leaders say their organization has a critical skills gap that has negatively affected business performance.
Additionally, the report found that the most in-demand technical skills include:
- Data analysis
- Project management
- AI and machine learning
- Software engineering
- Cybersecurity
- UX/UI learning
- Marketing
- Writing
Job training programs enable digital upskilling and help businesses fill skills gaps internally. The best part? Participants can earn high salaries while learning.
4. Job training is effective
Many research studies and use cases have shown that job training programs are effective.
For example, one study(opens new window) found that programs that focus on in-demand skills improve participants’ earning potential and employment opportunities. Job training programs have also been linked to better job satisfaction, productivity, and engagement.
Other studies have shown that 75% of employees(opens new window) engaged in upskilling programs report career progression, accompanied by an average earnings increase of over 5.2% compared to those who did not participate in such programs.
Types of job training programs
There are many types of career training services. Comparing apprenticeships, internships, and other options can help you decide which job training program is right for you. Here are the most common types and their benefits.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are paid training programs where you learn and develop the skills you need for a profession. In the U.S, they are often associated with trade jobs, but tech apprenticeships are becoming more popular.
Multiverse offers paid business and tech apprenticeships. They are tuition-free, on-the-job training programs. There are programs for data science, data analytics, software engineering, digital marketing, and more.
These programs combine structured curricula with workplace training. Multiverse apprentices complete a series of modules to learn foundational concepts and gain essential skills. They apply and expand this knowledge by working for leading employers and earning a competitive salary while they learn.
Apprentices also get exclusive access to career resources. You’ll get matched with a Multiverse coach who will provide advice and resources tailored to your career goals. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in AI learning modules, hackathons, networking events, and other professional development programs.
Multiverse apprenticeships last 6 to 15 months depending on the program and focus on job-ready skills. For example, Software Engineering apprentices learn multiple programming languages and study the software development lifecycle. Data analytics apprentices learn how to make data-driven decisions and master data visual techniques.
Benefits
- Earn wages while enrolled in your apprenticeship.
- Get on-the-job training from experts in your industry.
- Avoid tuition costs because you don’t need a college degree to enter an apprenticeship program.
- Develop a digital portfolio that highlights your skills and projects.
- Build a professional network in your field.
- Apprentices often get hired by their employers when they complete the program.
Drawbacks
- Apprenticeship programs can be competitive and have specific requirements to be eligible.
Internships
An internship is a temporary, short-term work placement. Participants usually work at organizations to gain hands-on professional experience. However, internships can be paid or unpaid. You could work for three to six months without compensation for your time or contributions.
Many students apply for internships to earn college credit and network with professionals.
Benefits
- Internships can sometimes lead to job offers. The organization you intern for might hire you if you demonstrate competency and they have an open role.
- Some internships are paid, so you can earn a wage while learning. However, paid interns earn less than apprentices—with some exceptions for investment banking and engineering.
Drawbacks
- Many internships are unpaid, so you could be working without receiving compensation.
- The quality of the intern experience depends on the organization.
- Some companies don’t consider internships as professional work experience when hiring.
Company training programs
Company training programs come in different forms. Overall, they aim to train employees on the skills and abilities they need to succeed on the job. Some examples include continuous learning, upskilling, and reskilling.
Some training programs focus on hard skills, such as learning a new programming language or getting certified in a tool like Hubspot. Other programs focus on soft skills like team building and leadership training. Participants may earn badges, certifications, and other credentials.
Benefits
- You can acquire or strengthen the skills needed to be eligible for a new role or promotion.
- The company you work for provides the training and development free of cost.
- Your productivity may increase as you develop skills and learn strategies to complete your tasks more efficiently.
Drawbacks
- Completing a company training program does not guarantee a promotion.
- Determining which skills to focus on or find the time to learn can be challenging.
- Workers may not receive personalized guidance and mentoring.
Mentorship or coaching
Mentorship and coaching activities are not as structured as conventional job training programs. They often involve informal conversations and one-on-one meetings. Mentors and coaches may provide personalized feedback and recommend career resources.
There are many ways to get mentorship or coaching. An employer may pair a newer employee (mentee) with one who has been at the company for a few years (mentor). You may seek one out by joining professional groups or mentoring platforms.
Most mentors and coaches focus on personal development and career advancement. They can help you network by providing introductions to other professionals.
Benefits
- You get one-on-one attention and feedback from your mentor or coach.
- A mentor at your place of work may have first-hand knowledge of what opportunities for advancement are available.
- Your mentor or coach will learn your goals, strengths, and opportunities for growth. This knowledge can help them recommend the best resources and professional development strategies.
Drawbacks
- Scheduling a meeting time with your mentor or coach can be difficult if they are in high demand.
- Finding a mentor or coach whose interests or personality align with yours can be challenging.
- You may have to pay a fee if you use a platform to find a coach or mentor.
Jobs with paid training
Many businesses offer career training programs. Job seekers can ask potential employers about professional development opportunities during interviews. You can also research available programs before applying.
Tech companies increasingly provide employee training services. For example, Box, CBRE, Jaguar Land Rover, and other top employers have partnered with Multiverse. These businesses pay apprentices to complete projects and solve business problems.
Multiverse apprentices work in various roles during and after their apprenticeships. For instance, people who complete the Applied Analytics Accelerator can land roles as Data Analysts and Business Analysts. The Digital Business Accelerator prepares apprentices for careers in business analytics and project management.
Elsewhere, the U.S. Department of Labor(opens new window) offers free resources for people who want to learn more about apprenticeships and discover paid opportunities.
How to find and apply to on-the-job training programs
Now that you know a few job training programs, discover how to find and apply for them. Here are four tips to help you identify the best career training services for you.
1. List your interests and skills
Create a list of all your interests and skills. For example, you might look into UX design training programs if you like to create digital art. Then, when searching for job training programs, compare the program requirements to what you jotted down on your list.
Your list of interests and skills can help you identify three to four specific jobs or programs to pursue. However, if you are still trying to decide what career is right, here are some tips.
- Think about skills you have that employers might want
- Research in-demand careers and job outlooks
- Watch “Day in the Life” YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram videos for different professions
- Consider your cost of living and note your desired salary range
- Take an online personality or career assessment
2. Identify your training or experience gaps
Once you have your list of potential career paths, review open job listings for them. For example, if web development is on your list, you’d search “Web Developer jobs”. Most job descriptions include skills, tools, and qualities for the role.
Review 10-15 job descriptions at different companies and compile a list of the qualifications that appear several times. This list will serve as a roadmap for your learning and help you identify gaps in your knowledge.
3. Search for on-the-job training programs
Now that you have a list of skills and tools you need for your career, search for relevant job training programs. Many company websites include information about available programs. Your employer or mentor may also recommend specific career training resources.
Look for an on-the-job training program that will close your training or experience gaps. Then, compare your list to the programs' curriculum to find the best fit for you.
Here are other factors to consider when deciding on the best job training program for your career:
- Program length and level of commitment - When does the career training start, and how long does it take to complete? How many hours will you need to dedicate to the program weekly?
- Certification or accreditation - Does your chosen career require certification, and does the training program offer it?
- Alum stories - What was the experience like for past participants? Did they land a job in their field after completing the program?
- Cost - Does the job training program charge a fee, or is it free? Do companies pay you during training?
- Instructor qualifications - Is the program developed and led by industry specialists? What credentials do the trainers have?
4. Apply for a paid apprenticeship
Paid apprenticeships are among the best types of on the job training programs. Apprentices learn from experienced professionals while building work experience and getting paid.
As a Multiverse apprentice, you earn a competitive salary while you learn on the job. We facilitate apprenticeship programs that provide hands-on, practical learning experiences. Unlike college or coding bootcamps, our apprenticeships don’t have a tuition fee.
The first step is to apply for a paid Multiverse apprenticeship(opens new window). You’ll create a profile of your skills, traits, and experiences during the application process. Next, we’ll get to know you and your goals for your future. Then, we’ll help you land a paid apprenticeship at a top company.
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