Information Technology (IT) apprenticeships combine hands-on training with paid work experience, which will help you build both technical skills and career readiness. Companies across tech and industry sectors are now using these registered apprenticeship models as a direct pipeline for skilled talent.
In an IT apprenticeship, you will learn practical, on-the-job skills under the guidance of experienced mentors. The great thing about these apprenticeships is that the successful completion of them will often lead to job opportunities and a more robust professional network.
Key Takeaways
- Information Technology (IT) apprenticeships will offer structured and paid training that will equip you with real-world technical skills. This includes networking, cloud foundations, and software development, while also helping you to build career readiness.
- High employment retention: In the U.S., approximately 94 % of individuals who complete a Registered Apprenticeship program remain employed, which makes apprenticeship one of the most reliable pathways into skilled tech roles.1
- Strong earning potential for completers: Program graduates on average will see an annual income around $84,000, which makes IT apprenticeships one of the most financially effective alternatives to your typical traditional education routes.1
- Current compensation for IT apprentices: Salaries for IT apprentices typically range from about $40,000 to $71,000, with a national average of about $53,000 per year.2
- Salary growth and income progression: Across industries, apprentices generally start their earnings at around $18 per hour, and by the time they complete their program they can earn approximately $32 per hour, which reflects a 77 % wage increase.3
What Is an IT Apprenticeship?
An IT apprenticeship is a paid, structured training program where you can gain workplace-relevant technical skills like networking, software development, and cloud fundamentals, all while making a fair wage. In the U.S., 94 percent of adults who completed a Registered Apprenticeship Program remain employed afterwards, earning average salaries around $84,000 annually.1 This makes IT apprenticeships one of the most reliable stepping stones into the tech industry for both career changers and new graduates.
What Does an Information Technology Apprentice Do?
As an IT apprentice, you work in a paid, structured role where you blend on‑the‑job learning, mentor-guided hands‑on tasks, and formal instruction.
From day one, you’ll be given meaningful responsibilities such as setting up hardware and software, responding to support tickets, and maintaining system configurations. You’ll shadow professionals, learn industry-standard tools, and gradually take on more complex projects like troubleshooting network issues, assisting with application deployments, or supporting end users. As you progress, your role may expand to include areas such as software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, or network engineering, which will be aligned with your interests and employer needs. If you have a specific interest area within IT, make sure your mentor knows about it so you can be placed in an aligned apprenticeship and with tasks that peak your interest.
Over time, successful apprentices build both technical problem‑solving skills and workplace readiness, which includes communication, teamwork, documentation, and resilience. All of these activities and skills that you will learn during your apprenticeship will prepare you to transition into your future full-fledged IT role.
5 Best Information Technology Apprenticeship Programs in 2025
Tech companies continue to lead the expansion of IT apprenticeships in 2025, offering structured, paid training programs that serve as talent pipelines for skilled roles. The U.S. Department of Labor continues to recognize many of these as official Registered Apprenticeship models.⁵
1. Amazon Technical Apprenticeships & Upskilling 2025
Amazon’s Technical Apprenticeship is a U.S. Department of Labor–certified program that offers paid, immersive classroom learning followed by up to 12 months of on-the-job training. Roles include Cloud Support Associate, Software Development Engineer, and Data Technician.
Part of Amazon’s broader “Upskilling 2025” initiative is a $1.2 billion investment that lets apprenticeship students sit alongside programs like Technical Academy, AWS Grow Our Own Talent, UX Design & Research Apprenticeship, and Robotics & Mechatronics Apprenticeship, all designed to empower nontraditional candidates and internal employees with pathways into tech roles.
2. Google Build Your Future Apprenticeships
Google’s Build Your Future apprenticeship continues offering paid technical training across tracks such as Information Technology, Software Engineering, Data Analytics, UX Design, and Project Management.
3. IBM New-Collar Apprenticeship Program
IBM remains committed to its New‑Collar apprenticeship initiative, which is an earn-and-learn model for individuals without a four-year degree. Apprentices work full‑time on real projects, receive in-house training, mentoring, and earn digital credentials, fast-tracking their career transition into technical roles through skill-based hiring.
4. Accenture & Other Leading Tech Apprenticeships
Full-time apprenticeships at Accenture (~12 months) focus on fields like Cybersecurity, Cloud Engineering, and Data Engineering and culminate in competitive entry-level positions. Airbnb, SAP, and others, though not part of the original list, now offer strong apprenticeships in Software Engineering, often extending 5–7 months with mentorship and client-facing experience.
5. Digital Apprenticeships & Broader Industry Trends
Across sectors, digital apprenticeships are gaining momentum. Structures typically span 12–24 months, combining on-the-job tasks with formal learning. Salaries generally start around $35,000–$50,000, and many programs now include job-placement guarantees at completion. Fields commonly include Software Development, Data Analysis, Digital Marketing, and IT Support.
Remote IT Apprenticeships
Remote and hybrid IT apprenticeships have evolved significantly over the last few years. While traditional models have typically favored in-person, mentor-led on-the-job training, today virtual and hybrid approaches are becoming both viable and impactful.
- The U.S. Department of Labor and industry partners supports remote Registered Apprenticeships, which enables portions, or even the entirety, of both on-the-job training and related technical instruction to be completed virtually.
- Hybrid models, where apprentices work remotely certain days and onsite others, are also becoming increasingly popular. In one survey, 74 % of apprentices reported that they were working from home one to two days per week, which shows growing employer and learner flexibility in terms of successful learning and working in the virtual environment.4
These shifts reflect broader trends: Remote work is now the norm for about 22 % of the U.S. workforce, and 83 % of employees prefer this hybrid arrangement. This data is a clear indicator that apprenticeship programs must adapt to remain inclusive, scalable, and competitive with the rest of the workforce.5
Types of Information Technology Apprenticeships
Apprenticeship programs today span a wide range of tech-focused disciplines, providing hands-on career tracks aligned with in-demand roles and evolving industry needs.
Here are the most common types of IT apprenticeship roles available in 2025:
- IT Support / Technician (e.g., Help Desk, Network Support) — These apprentices focus on troubleshooting hardware, software, and network issues, responding to support tickets, and maintaining device and application functionality. The role builds the essential operational backbone for organizational tech use.
- Web / Front-End Developer — Apprentices work on designing and building user-facing web elements using technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks. UX/UI collaboration is common, blending visual design with technical implementation.
- Software Developer / Engineer — In this track, apprentices participate in the full software development lifecycle (i.e., writing and testing code, fixing bugs, contributing to feature enhancements) and sometimes even exploring areas like DevOps or security.
- Data Technician / Analyst / Database Administrator — These apprentices handle data storage, retrieval, validation, and preliminary analysis tasks. As they advance, they may support database performance tuning, migration, or complex data workflows.
- Cybersecurity Support / Technician — Roles include monitoring systems for security threats, assisting in incident response, vulnerability scanning, and applying basic protective measures under supervision.
- AI / Machine Learning Specialist (Emerging) — As demand for AI solutions grows rapidly, a new wave of apprenticeships is emerging targeting AI/ML. Trainers focus on basics like model training, ethical AI principles, and deploying AI-powered applications.
Each apprenticeship tracks both paid, on-the-job learning and formal instruction, which consistently combines practical experience with structured knowledge.
Information Technology Apprenticeship Salary
As of mid‑2025, the most current salary insights show IT apprentices are earning considerably more than earlier estimates. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for IT apprentices in the U.S. is $53,073, which is pretty significant considering the degree (or lack thereof) required for entry.7 The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that full-fledged computer and IT roles typically offer a median annual income near $105,990, which demonstrates the substantial salary upside available after apprenticeship completion.8
Information Technology Apprenticeship Requirements
Entry into IT apprenticeships varies widely by program, but across the board, two constants stand out: motivation and basic technical aptitude.
- Educational Background — Many IT apprenticeship programs are open to applicants with a high school diploma, vocational certificate, or equivalent. For example, a U.S. application developer apprenticeship may require only a high school credential plus legal work authorization. In contrast, deeper technical roles or degree-linked tracks may require a bachelor’s degree, especially for programs affiliated with colleges or universities or those leading toward advanced credentials.
- Technical Proficiency & Foundational Skills — Applicants are generally expected to demonstrate familiarity with core programming fundamentals and tooling. This includes:
- At least one programming language (e.g., Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, HTML/CSS) including comfort with version control tools (e.g., Git) and database basics such as SQL.
- Soft skills like problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and adaptability are frequently highlighted as equally important to succeed on the job.
- Pre-apprenticeship Training (is typically optional but increasingly common in 2025) — Some programs offer or require structured preparation phases, such as “bootcamp” style foundational training before the formal apprenticeship begins, especially in more technical or development-focused tracks. These can include mini‑projects or guided online modules aimed at bridging skill gaps.
How to Get an Information Technology Apprenticeship
Qualifying for an IT apprenticeship today combines proactive preparation, relevant experience, and smart navigation of modern entry pathways:
- Complete Short-Term Bootcamp or Prep Programs — Intensive bootcamps, especially those aligned to employer needs, can fast-track your readiness for apprenticeships. Many include guided projects, real-world tools training, and early job placement support. Tech employers increasingly value bootcamp alumni for apprenticeship readiness.
- Gain Industry-Relevant Experience via Internships — A paid internship, especially in tech operations, support, or development, provides hands-on exposure and a direct path to apprenticeship programs. Employers often convert high-performing interns into apprentices or full-time hires.
- Use Trade or Vocational Training — Trade schools offer structured, hands-on programs that sometimes include built-in apprenticeship steps. They can also boost your application with practical experience and industry-aligned skills.
- Leverage Registered Apprenticeship Networks — The U.S. Department of Labor’s Registered Apprenticeship model offers structured, wage-progressive programs combining work experience and formal learning, which are available across tech fields. Check the federal apprenticeship portal or state apprenticeship agencies to find vetted pathways.
- Try Apprenticeship Degree Programs — Some institutions now offer Apprenticeship Degrees, where you earn a full degree (associate, bachelor’s, or higher) all on paid work release. These programs do a great job of blending job-based learning with tuition-free academic credit.
- Tap Veteran & GI Bill Support — If you’re a veteran, the GI Bill can cover expenses during apprenticeships, including living allowances and training supplies, which provides financial and logistical support for pursuing tech apprenticeships.⁷
- Target Industry-Aligned Employers & New-Collar Initiatives — Companies like Amazon, IBM, Google, and Accenture offer apprenticeship programs that prioritize skills, motivation, and career potential over traditional education requirements. These are often faster routes into paid tech roles.
Is a Job With the Company Guaranteed After Completing an Apprenticeship?
While completing an apprenticeship significantly boosts your employability, a full-time job with the sponsoring company is not guaranteed. These types of full-time job offers typically depend on employer hiring needs, budget, and your performance during the program. That being said, completing a program will give you an edge: you gain relevant experience, integrated knowledge of workplace culture, and internal relationships, all of which elevate your candidacy for full-time roles.
Is an Information Technology Apprenticeship Worth It?
Yes, IT apprenticeships are worth it in 2025. These programs let you earn money while you are simultaneously learning, giving you paid, hands-on experience without the debt burden of a traditional degree. Employers view apprenticeship graduates favorably because they come equipped with proven, workplace-ready skills. By combining income, skill development, and job security, IT apprenticeships stand out in 2025 as one of the most effective and future-proof ways to launch or change a career in technology.
Information Technology Apprenticeship FAQ
The IBM Apprenticeship is competitive and structured in multiple stages, including an online application, coding and aptitude assessments, and an in-person assessment center featuring interviews, group exercises, and presentations to evaluate teamwork and fit. While no college degree is required under IBM’s “New Collar” initiative, successful applicants typically show technical preparation, passion, and alignment with IBM’s culture.
As of mid‑2025, Glassdoor data indicates that Google IT apprentices can make anywhere between approximately $63,000 to $117,000.
IT apprenticeships generally span between 12 months and up to three years, depending on the level and complexity of the role.
IT apprenticeships are designed to welcome a broad range of candidates. Many programs accept applicants with only a high school diploma or equivalent; however, some employer-aligned or degree-level programs may prefer or require a bachelor’s degree or relevant training.
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Sources:
- https://ctepolicywatch.acteonline.org/2025/02/research-roundup-apprenticeships-state-of-the-nation-broad-access-institutions-career-pathways.html
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/it-apprentice-salary-SRCH_KO0%2C13.htm
- https://www.ccdaily.com/2025/01/new-stats-on-registered-apprenticeships/
- https://accessindustry.co.uk/blog/15-apprenticeship-predictions-2024-25/
- https://neat.no/resources/the-state-of-remote-work-2025-statistics/
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salary/Google-IT-Apprenticeship-Salaries-E9079_D_KO7%2C24.htm
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/it-apprentice-salary-SRCH_KO0,13.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology
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