Felons struggling to find work can benefit a great deal by becoming skilled workers. Union apprenticeships are the best way to do this, for several reasons. Apprentices are paid during training, and receive substantial raises as they move through the program.
Apprenticeships For Felons
The process starts out with applying to a union office to become an apprentice. These are typically construction trades, like electricians, carpenters, sheet metal workers, plumbers and more. Most unions will not discriminate against people with felonies. Many times, it is a matter of being persistent and available to get a foot in the door.
A pre-apprenticeship can make the chances of getting an apprenticeship even better. The Indiana Plan is a pre-apprenticeship program that combines classroom hours and on the job training, and is partially funded by the state. It is targeted towards minorities, but in 2007, nearly half of the program’s graduates were ex-offenders. These felons were then qualified to become apprentices.
Depending on the field, apprenticeships take a few years, but are usually paid throughout. The pay increases as the program goes on, and with the help of the union, finding a job is much easier upon completing the program. Most apprenticeships will require a high school diploma or G.E.D. to apply.
In the end, this process gives felons an edge they did not have when looking for jobs. It is more valuable for an employer to hire someone with a proven skill, whether the person is a felon or not. Applying for apprenticeships or the Indiana Plan is a first step towards jobs for felons that can become long lasting careers.
