Manchester Community College (MCC) has become the sponsor of three information technology (IT) career pathways through ApprenticeshipNH, a workforce program of the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH). MCC will work with employers to secure Cyber Security Support Technician, Network Support Specialist and Technical Support Specialist pathways for adults and high schoolers through registered and pre-apprentice programs, creating a workforce pipeline to help fill in-demand jobs with skilled employees.
“It is tremendously valuable to incorporate registered apprenticeships into MCC’s already robust computer science and cybersecurity programs,” said Brian Bicknell, president of MCC. “This pathway to IT occupations enables any business with IT staffing needs to work with us to easily create apprentice programs and help fill career gaps.”
As the world continues to drive technology forward, nearly every business has IT positions, and many have immediate and ongoing needs for skilled workers.
Registered Apprenticeships are a proven solution for employers with workforce shortages to hire and retain workers while acting as an opportunity for apprentices to earn immediate employment with steadily increasing wages and develop new skills in high-demand fields. Under the sponsorship with MCC, employers can enter a one-page agreement to provide a mentor for the on-the-job training and support for the apprentice. High school students can directly enter the apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship through Running Start and Early College courses, providing dual high school and college credit, while completing on-the-job training part-time.
“Community colleges serving as sponsors for registered apprenticeship programs is an evidence-based model that we hope to expand to other colleges throughout the state,” said Becky Lewis, workforce development director at CCSNH. “By partnering with MCC, this program is helping meet the needs and demands of the tech sector as it continues to grow in New Hampshire. Employers can sign on now and tap into a talent pool that may be available over the summer to start on-the-job training and register for courses in the fall. This unique program enables employers to build a pipeline of talent for Technical Support Specialists to Network Support Specialists and Cyber Security Support Technicians through a stackable program that fills all three functional areas with one individual.”
All training and related instruction is fully developed through MCC using national guidelines from Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), the IT industry’s top trade association and issuing body for professional certifications. The related technical instruction at MCC ranges from 360 to 753 hours. The program includes one to four years of on-the-job training using the “earn while you learn” model. Upon completion of the program, apprentices will earn a U.S. Department of Labor Certificate of Completion, CompTIA certification, WorkReadyNH certification and badge and college credit from MCC to use towards an associate degree program.
In its 2022 national Cyberstates Report, CompTIA reported that 54,284 were employed in technology-related jobs in New Hampshire. This totaled 7.8% of total employment, ranking N.H. as sixth highest nationally. Estimated median wages in the industry in the Granite State were 114% higher than the median state wage.
“These new apprenticeships enable individuals to enter a lucrative and growing field with marketable skills that are in demand,” said Julie Demers, executive director of the NH Tech Alliance. “It’s great to see these creative partnerships being designed to provide ready-made opportunities for those interested in the tech sector.”
Employers who are interested in an IT apprenticeship program at MCC should contact mpatrick@ccsnh.edu.