Paid DC Youth Apprenticeship (Spring 2027)
- Organization: DC Department of Employment Services (DOES), via Skills Nation
- Type: Internship
- Location: Washington, DC, United States
- Deadline: November 13, 2026
- Funding: Fully Funded
The DC Department of Employment Services runs this paid apprenticeship for graduating seniors at DC public and public charter high schools, applied for through its Skills Nation portal. From February to May 2027, apprentices move to a half-day school schedule and spend up to 16 hours a week training on the job with a participating employer in a registered apprenticeship occupation, alongside technical classroom instruction. Places are limited to 100 and allocated first come, first served. **What you get:** - $18.40 an hour for up to 16 hours a week, paid every two weeks - 200 hours of paid on-the-job training plus technical classroom instruction - The chance to earn an industry-recognised credential - A case manager, supportive services, job resources and notice of hiring fairs - A strong chance of a job offer from your host employer or a partner employer, though a job is not guaranteed - A National Signing Day for apprentices offered employment after the programme **What you'll do:** - Train on the job with a participating employer in a traditional trade such as construction, electrical, carpentry, plumbing or heavy equipment, or in a field such as IT, hospitality, healthcare or clean energy - Take technical classroom instruction linked to your occupation - Switch to a half-day school schedule while staying on track to graduate **Key dates:** - Applications open October 12, 2026 - Applications close November 13, 2026 - Half-day school schedule in place by January 2027 - Programme runs February to May 2027 **More information:** - Applying takes about 30 minutes and needs eligibility documents uploaded; you can save and return - After review, eligible candidates interview with participating program sponsors, and DOES emails acceptances - Applicants under 18 need a parent or guardian consent form; medical roles need a DC Health Universal Health Certificate - Questions: Sierra Gladney, sierra.gladney2@dc.gov, 202.698.3599, or Erica Thomas, erica.thomas2@dc.gov, 202.550.7310
