Pre-Apprenticeship Quick Reference Guide

Child Labor Law and Consultative Services

The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development offers employers the opportunity to review practices to determine if working conditions at a facility are conducive to employing minors in a pre-apprenticeship program. A consultant from the Department’s Labor Standards Unit will visit a facility and complete an assessment of working conditions. Following Tennessee law, the consultant will work with an employer to ensure an allowable safe working environment.

The purpose of the Work-Based Learning Child Labor Overview is to provide WBL coordinators, school and district administrators, students, parents, and employers with the most pertinent Child Labor Act information associated with minors enrolled in WBL courses. For general information, view the Work-Based Learning (WBL) Child Labor Law Overview (PDF).

Pre-Apprenticeship Myths

Myth: "Pre-Apprenticeships are only for youth.”
Fact: Many programs do focus on youth. However, Pre-Apprenticeship programs are designed for any individual, including adults.

Myth: "Completion of a Pre-Apprenticeship program guarantees placement into a Registered Apprenticeship."
Fact: It guarantees an interview but not a placement.

Myth: Pre-Apprenticeships only cover basic or classroom-based training.
Fact: Pre-Apprenticeships combine basic and classroom-based training with industry exposure and hands-on training.

Common Questions