Pre-Apprenticeship Industrial Readiness

The Industrial Readiness Training program is a comprehensive course designed to provide participants with the foundational technical skills, knowledge and practical expertise essential for entry into high-demand skilled trades jobs. The curriculum features specialized instruction focused on maritime and defense industrial applications. This program provides critical hands-on experience, ensuring students completing the program are well-rounded and immediately ready for technical roles supporting the defense industrial base, direct entry into a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) or employment in the advanced manufacturing industry.

This pre-apprenticeship program is a great starting point and serves as a pathway to an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship is an "earn and learn model" where you start working and earning an income the first day on the job!

• Average entry-level wage range:  $18 per hour and up

Program Information

• Cohort 2:  June 22 - July 31, 2026
• Days/Times:  Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Program Length:  6 weeks
• Location:  Auburn Hills Campus 
• Cost:  The program will be provided to the participant at no cost.
• Eligibility:  You must be a minimum of 18 years of age or will turn 18 years of age prior to the completion of the program.
  
  Note:  We also offer a 5-week Pre-Apprenticeship Skilled Trades/Manufacturing training program. This program includes the same classes as the Pre-Apprenticeship Industrial Readiness program but excludes welding and is one week shorter.

What to Expect

• Focus:  The Skilled Trades program is designed to give you the knowledge, skills and experience necessary for entry-level positions. Course content covers applied technical math, blueprint reading, precision measurement and inspection (metrology), career readiness, OSHA 10 and welding.
• Course details: For specific details about courses and descriptions included in the training, please review the program description.
• Certifications*:  OSHA 10, Mike Rowe Work Ethic, Precision Measurement and Inspection
  Note:  Oakland Community College has worked with Michigan Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to create the Michigan Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate (MARC). This pre-apprenticeship in skill trades has a MARC Level I endorsement.  This level indicates a person (pre-apprentice) is ready to enter a RAP within a specific industry. Completing a MARC Level I endorsed program can significantly benefit both the individual and the employer. For the individual, eligibility for an interview. For employer RAP sponsors, it speeds up the hiring process by providing a pool of pre-qualified candidates.
• Real-world experience:  In addition to instruction time and dedicated lab experience, you will participate in industry-led tours and employer interviews. Attendance is required in order for successful completion of the program. 
• *Note:  individuals who successfully complete the program, are eligible to receive up to eight credits at OCC. Plus, 120 Related Technical Instruction (RTI) hours towards a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

How to Apply

The application process is five simple steps!

1. Complete the OCC online application for admission (if you are not an OCC student). Please allow two business days for processing. If you are a current student, proceed to the next step.
2. Setup a MyOCC account and OCC student email.
3. Complete the pre-apprenticeship application.
4. Complete the online new student orientation. This is accessible through your MyOCC account.
5. Optional if needed - If you are experiencing barriers with getting to campus, you may contact Oakland County Michigan Works! They might be able to provide additional support such as mileage or other expenses associated with the training. 

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