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Why a Robotics Apprenticeship is the Best First Step

There is no one right way to enter into a career in robotics. Some people heavily focus on education first, obtaining 4, or more, year degrees in robotics engineering or other related fields. Other people want to get in as quickly as possible and get a 2 year degree or a trade school certification and enter as robotics technicians. Still others will start with an internship or even an apprenticeship.

All of these paths are equally valid, and each and every one can lead to a long and fulfilling career in robotics.

However, this article is about one of those paths in particular - Starting with an apprenticeship. It's a route that sometimes doesn't receive the consideration that it should, so we wanted to take a moment and tell you why a robotics apprenticeship could be the entry point into a robotics career that you've been looking for.

What Is an Apprenticeship, and How Is It Different From an Internship?

An apprenticeship is a little different from an internship in that it's more focused on hands-on training and less on temporary work. In fact, many times an apprentice will be brought on as a full-time, paid employee of the company. Also, apprenticeships typically last much longer than internships. 

The goal of an apprenticeship is to provide the individual with the skills and training necessary to eventually become a journeyman in their field. A journeyman is someone who has completed their apprenticeship and is now considered a skilled worker in their field.
 

Apprenticeships have been around for centuries, and they're still used today to train people in all sorts of occupations - from chefs to carpenters to, yes, even robotics engineers.

What Does One Do During a Robotics Apprenticeship?

A robotics apprenticeship will involve working with and learning from experienced professionals in the field. You'll get first-hand experience working on real projects, using the latest technologies.
 

You'll also receive training in a variety of topics related to your robotics engineering career. This could include things like computer programming, electronics, and mechanical design.
 

The specific content of your apprenticeship will depend on the company you're working for, as well as your own skills and interests.
 

Is an Apprenticeship a Substitute for Traditional Education?

An apprenticeship should not be seen as a substitute for traditional education, but rather as a complement to it.

There are some things that can only be learned in the classroom, and there are other things that can only be learned by getting your hands dirty and doing the work yourself. An apprenticeship will give you a chance to do both.

Consider a robotics apprenticeship the yin to traditional education's yang. While classroom learning can teach you the theory behind robotics, an  apprenticeship will give you the opportunity to learn how to put that theory into practice.

Why Should You Consider a Robotics Apprenticeship?

There are several reasons why starting your robotics career with an apprenticeship might be the best move for you.

For one, it will allow you to get your foot in the door of the company you want to work for. If you have your sights set on a particular company, then an apprenticeship is a great way to start working towards your goal.
 

Secondly, an apprenticeship will give you the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business. You'll be working alongside experienced professionals who can help mentor you and teach you the ropes.
 

Third, an apprenticeship will give you the chance to learn while you earn. You'll be getting paid for your work, and you'll also be learning valuable skills that will help you in your career.
 

And finally, an apprenticeship can lead to a full-time job. Many times, an apprentice will be brought on as a full-time, paid employee of the company once they've completed their training.

So, if you're looking for a way to enter into a robotics career, then an apprenticeship might be the perfect option for you. It's a great way to get your foot in the door, learn from some of the best in the business, and earn while you learn.

How Can You Find the Right Robotics Apprenticeship for You?

Easy! Just use the RoboticsCareer.org search tool to find the robotics apprenticeships that best match what you're looking for! 

You can search by location, area of interest, or company. And you can filter your results to find the perfect apprenticeship for you.

So what are you waiting for? Start your search today and take the first step toward a robotics career!