Scott Ross, Freddy Weidner and Nicole Daane of FTI accept CESA 6 award

When Dalton was in high school, he dreamed of a career in the skilled trades. Through FTI’s youth apprenticeship program, he turned that dream into reality, earning 450 hours toward his journeyman’s license. Today, he’s not just working in the field, he’s leading crews at FTI as a Licensed Electrician.

Abby, another goal-oriented apprentice, was also interested in a career in the trades while attending high school. Currently, she is one of several young women working her way through FTI’s apprenticeship program.

Every year, dozens of young people like Dalton and Abby apply for FTI’s youth apprenticeship program. With a 90% full-time offer rate upon high school graduation, the program sets the stage for successful careers. These apprentices are more than just skilled workers — they’re future leaders, driving innovation and moving mountains in their fields.

This commitment to developing young talent recently earned FTI the CESA 6 Youth Apprentice Exceptional Mentor Award. The honor recognizes FTI’s “exemplary contributions to youth apprenticeship and impactful role as advocates for workforce development within the industry.” The award also commended FTI’s efforts to create “pathways for young talent that emphasize both professional skill-building and personal growth.”

What Sets FTI’s Youth Apprenticeship Program Apart?

FTI’s youth apprenticeship program is a model for workforce development, combining practical training with mentorship to create a transformative experience for students. FTI has been partnering with CESA 6, a Cooperative Education Service Agency, for many years, and the success of our program is due to several reasons:

  • Comprehensive Training: FTI apprentices gain both occupational and essential workplace competencies like communication, adaptability and professionalism. Safety and technical expertise are also core elements of the curriculum.
  • Multiple Pathways: Apprentices can explore a variety of career paths, including manufacturing, electrical, business technology and engineering — with more options being developed.
  • Strong Partnerships: FTI collaborates with CESA 6 and local high schools, creating a seamless connection between students and the skilled trades. Parents are also involved and take pride in seeing their children thrive in the program.
  • Mentorship and Leadership: Experienced mentors and company leaders invest their time to guide apprentices, sharing their expertise and fostering a culture of support. For them, helping the apprentices grow and giving back to their profession is a deeply rewarding experience.
  • Hands-on Experience: Students gain practical experience through job shadowing and additional hours during the summer, which helps them transition smoothly when school starts in the fall.
  • Career Acceleration: By the time they graduate, apprentices have earned and accumulated hours toward their journeyman’s license, giving them a head start in their careers.
  • Community Impact: The program addresses workforce shortages by introducing a new generation of skilled talent, benefiting the community while empowering young students.

A Proud Legacy of Apprenticeship

FTI’s youth apprenticeship program creates a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where apprentices feel valued and respected. It doesn’t just provide opportunities — it builds futures. With every new cohort, FTI reaffirms its commitment to Creating World-Class Opportunities to Succeed, ensuring that the next generation of skilled workers is ready to lead. Those who graduate from the program are set up for rewarding careers and lifelong learning. Very often, they continue to advance within the company and make significant contributions to FTI’s growth and success.