Denmark Technical College has joined forces with Apprenticeship Carolina to offer apprenticeship opportunities to individuals entering the workforce.
This fall, Denmark Tech hired their first information technology apprentice, Amanda Guinyard, who was offered the apprenticeship after a competitive process among dozens of applicants.
“Prior to my graduation from the College of Charleston, I researched various industries throughout the state and attended virtual career fairs. Through those searches, I learned about Apprenticeship Carolina and the Denmark Tech position,” said Guinyard.
“Between the numerous applications and interviews, Ms. Amanda Guinyard stood out as the most enthusiastic and best fit for the department and institution. The institution has really gained value from Ms. Guinyard’s work ethic and Ms. Guinyard has gained an opportunity that will enhance her foundational skillset and career trajectory for years to come,” added Michael Myers, director of IT at Denmark Tech.
Although Guinyard holds a bachelor’s in computer science, a degree is not a requirement of the program. According to Apprenticeship Carolina, South Carolina’s official liaison for registering programs with the U.S. Department of Labor, the only requirement is that an apprentice must be at least 16 years of age, but individual employers set parameters based on industry specific requirements. Generally, registered apprentices have a demonstrated aptitude for the field they are entering.
Apprenticeships are an earn while you learn training model that combines structured on the job training, job related education and a scalable wage progression, resulting in a mutually beneficial relationship for apprentices, employers and workforce development as a whole.
“We are thrilled to be a part of the Apprenticeship Carolina program. While we have started off with an IT apprenticeship, we are working towards adding more positions in several other areas,” said Harry McFadden, director of continuing education and workforce development at Denmark Tech.
In addition to IT, registered apprenticeships cover a wide variety of career fields, including advanced manufacturing, construction technology, tourism and service industries.
“Miss Guinyard has been a fantastic addition to the DTC team. Just as we do with our academic programs, we are looking forward to many years of training apprentices who leave Denmark Tech prepared to face the challenges in front of them as successful members of the South Carolina workforce,” said Denmark Technical College President and CEO Dr. Willie L. Todd, Jr.
