(PCM+) "Learn and Earn": It's Not Your Dad's Idea of Apprenticeships Anymore!

Story by Marlys Cervantes / Staff Writer

The following article appeared in the print issue of Ponca City Monthly magazine, which includes hyperlocal stories about Ponca City. Get full access to all online articles, videos, and content by becoming a paid subscriber. We offer free and paid subscription plans. Find rack locations to pick up your free print copy here, or subscribe here to get online access plus exclusive content.

If you’re like me, when you first think of apprenticeships you think of plumbing or HVAC individuals working alongside skilled business owners and workers to train in their hands-on work as they learn the numerous details necessary to do their jobs. While these programs can be part of the new apprenticeship program at Pioneer Technology Center, the extent the program can expand seems boundless. 

The apprenticeship initiative is new across technology centers in the state, and therefore this position of Apprenticeship Training Coordinator is a new one that is now held by Ian Freeman.  Freeman appreciates the opportunity to move from being PTC’s Welding Instructor to one that contributes to the community on a larger scale. He says, “I will have the capability to support individuals and businesses throughout the county across various industries, which has always been a goal of mine.”