In the 'one Navy' concept, I just happen to have an 'R' after my name. Reservists have special job skills the military can capitalize on. Ultimately it just brings more back to the mission. Under an agreement between the Navy and the Labor Department's Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, there are apprenticeships available in 78 ratings and 74 trades. It is an excellent program to set up something that you can use once you leave the Navy.
Some colleges offer credit toward an associates degree for completion of an apprenticeship program.
The program gives Sailors the opportunity to meet the requirements to participate in state licensing examinations. Higher starting pay in the civilian work force is also possible. N.Y. A member of the legal department, he has completed 50 percent of his apprenticeship. I found out about the program through the ship's educational services office, and started last year. There are a lot of hours that must be put in to complete the requirements, but the outcome of the program is very rewarding.