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For anybody who wants to work in robotics, a robotics apprenticeship can be a great way to get a first-hand taste of what it's actually like to work with robots. It's also a great way to build and strengthen a foundation that can be built upon for a robotics career. 

Below, we'll talk about what a robotics apprenticeship entails, how to go about finding one, and what sorts of things you can expect to learn during a robotics apprenticeship.

What Is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a system of training where someone (the apprentice) learns a trade or craft from an experienced worker (the journeyman). The apprentice typically works for the journeyman, but may also work alongside other apprentices and journeymen. 

Also, apprenticeships are often paid positions, so you’re actually working for an employer and being paid for it while learning the skills you need to make a career out of it. 

Apprenticeships have been around for centuries, and were once the primary way that trades and crafts were passed down from one generation to the next. Today, apprenticeships are still used in many fields, including robotics and manufacturing. While your robotics apprenticeship may vary from those of yesteryear, the concept of learning on the job from a more experienced worker in a similar role has evolved to meet the demands of the modern market.

What Can I Expect From a Robotics Apprenticeship?

A robotics apprenticeship will typically last between one and four years. During this time, you will learn about various aspects of working with robots, including design, programming, maintenance, and repair, with a heavy emphasis on the last two points in the case of a robotics technician apprenticeship. 

You will also gain experience working with different types of robots, and will have the opportunity to work with both industrial and consumer-grade robots. 

Your day-to-day experience could be quite varied, and may include anything from working on a team to develop new robotic technologies to working independently to repair and maintain existing robots.

Apprenticeships are hands-on, so you can expect to spend a lot of time working with robots, rather than simply learning about them in a classroom setting. That hands-on experience will be a valuable asset as you move forward in your career in robotics.

What Do I Need to Start a Robotics Apprenticeship?

There are a few things you'll need to get started in a robotics apprenticeship. First and foremost, you'll need to have a strong interest in robotics. 

You should also have some basic knowledge of robotics and related technologies, as well as good problem-solving skills. If you don't have any experience working with robots before starting a robotics apprenticeship, don't worry – many apprenticeships will provide you with the opportunity to learn as you go. 

In terms of formal education, most robotics apprenticeships will require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some may require additional training or certification, such as an associate's degree in engineering or a related field. 

How Do I Find a Robotics Apprenticeship?

RoboticsCareer.org makes it easy to find robotics apprenticeships. The search tool on the homepage puts a database of thousands and thousands of robotics training and education programs from all around the country right at your fingertips. By creating a profile, you can unlock a world of opportunities in the field of robotics.

You can use the tool to search for apprenticeship opportunities by location, or keyword. You can also narrow your results by selecting specific filters, such as duration, credentials earned, and more. 

No matter where you are, chances are that there’s an opportunity for you. For example, AmSkills just got approval for the first robotics technician apprenticeship in the state of Florida!

So here’s the bottom line: If you're interested in pursuing a career in robotics, an apprenticeship is a great place to start. With the help of RoboticsCareer.org, you can find the perfect opportunity to get your foot in the door.

About The Author

Lisa Masciantonio 

Chief Workforce Officer

Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute 

Lisa Masciantonio is the Chief Workforce Officer for the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute. She joined the ARM Institute in May 2017 as the Director of Membership and Outreach.  She moved to the position of Chief Workforce Officer in 2019 and she is responsible for driving the Education & Workforce Development vision for ARM in conjunction with the ARM membership, the federal and state government partners, and other expert stakeholders. 

Lisa brings with her over 25 years of experience as a performance-driven leader with notable success in cultivating and executing business strategies and formulating long-term strategic client relationships.  She has proven success in developing business solutions, commercialization of products, technology transfer, and technological initiatives that have supported organizational growth, improved staff productivity, and increased value to many communities of practice. Critical to her success is the ability to increase awareness and drive thought leadership position by designing and executing innovative programs as well as developing and launching new, value-add offerings for ongoing competitiveness. Lisa received a Bachelor’s degree from the Pennsylvania State University and 2 Master’s degrees from Carnegie Mellon University. 

In 2021, Lisa was recognized as one of 20 world-wide Exceptional Women in Robotics and Automation by SME. In 2022, she was recognized by the Pittsburgh Business Times as a Women of Influence and was also part of the inaugural Technical.ly Pittsburgh RealLIST Connectors list, which recognizes the top 100 influential leaders in Pittsburgh tech.