Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida Celebrates First Graduating Class of Its Pre-Apprenticeship Program

FORT MYERS, Fla. – July 17, 2025 – Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida celebrates the first graduating class from its Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Recognizing the demand for “middle-skill” employees, the non-profit organization created this program to help participants fast-track a career in multiple trade industries by outlining their goals for the future and coordinating the steps necessary to achieve those goals.

With 50% of American jobs requiring more than a high school diploma, Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida created the Pre-Apprenticeship Program to train participants for success in trade careers that experience a high demand for professionals. This program provides a 6-month, work-based learning experience that benefits both the student and the employer hosting the apprentice.

The program focuses on electrical, plumbing, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) trade industries. While enrolled, participants gain knowledge in career readiness skills, including goal setting and personal branding, resume building and interview techniques, communication and social media etiquette, and effective problem-solving and teamwork. Additionally, students receive guidance through real-life experiences, participate in site tours and mock interviews, learn about personal finance, gain knowledgeable safety skills, engage in forklift training, and earn certifications in OSHA-10 and First Aid/CPR. Students also receive training with hand tools and power tools by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certified instructors at Tri-County’s Apprenticeship Academy.

“Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida focuses on solutions for our students and our community, so it made perfect sense to bridge the gap for our local workforce needs with students who are seeking trade careers,” said Angela Fisher, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida. “We are extremely proud of the students who have completed the Pre-Apprenticeship Program, and are thrilled that 19 of the 22 graduates have found a great match for their career and employment goals. It is rewarding to see that this opportunity has exposed high school students to various career pathways, allowing them to make informed decisions, while opening new doors of opportunity.”

The next session of the Pre-Apprenticeship Program will begin in January 2026, and applications are being accepted from now through December. Interested applicants should be a graduating high school senior and would turn 18 before the closure of the 2025-2026 school year. They must reside in Lee County, have a clean background and driving record, a valid driver's license, and a copy of their social security card.

Youth who may be interested in participating should contact their high school career and technical educators. Applicants can learn more by visiting the Pre-Apprenticeship Program website or emailing the program manager, Brian Willard, at Bwillard@jaswfl.org. For more information about Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida and its programs, please visit www.jaswfl.org.