Milton Hershey School Shares Expertise in School Apprenticeship at Statewide Summit

Milton Hershey School has proven excellence in preparing students to graduate college and career ready through the Career and Technical Education (CTE) curriculum, specifically with pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship offerings.

Because of these initiatives, David Curry, MHS Director of Career and Technical Education, was asked to present at the 2019 PA Apprenticeship Summit last week at Hershey Lodge. His session focused on how schools can create pre-apprenticeship pipelines that translate to successful student outcomes.

“The goal of the CTE program at MHS is to help students from poverty obtain skills and find a passion in something that will help them to become successful. Through hands-on technical training, students are empowered to discover unique talents which could translate to future careers,” said Curry. “The philosophy goes back to Milton Hershey’s own experience as an apprentice, and current MHS students continue that legacy by developing the same work ethic.”

Curry explained that career exploration does not start in high school. At MHS, elementary school students gain early exposure to career interests through guest speakers, field trips, and classroom activities. Middle school students can engage in more collaborative, project-based learning initiatives that help them narrow their areas of interest. By the time decisions can be made in high school, students are prepared to pursue their career of choice through 12 career pathways. All students can earn state- and nationally-recognized certifications to help them build skills, make meaningful connections, and complete authentic work experiences through internship and co-op programs.

The 2019 Apprenticeship Summit was hosted by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry’s Apprenticeship and Training Office (ATO). Attendees learned what state, regional, and federal resources are available to support workforce development and training needs.