Pre-Vocational Training Before obtaining vocational training for a nontraditional occupation, women may want to enter into a pre-vocational training program to brush up on the basic skills and aptitudes (abilities) related to a particular nontraditional occupation. Sometimes, a lack of pre-vocational skills—such as tool identification, math skills and physical conditioning—makes it difficult for women to succeed in vocational training or obtain entry-level positions in nontraditional fields. Pre-vocational training programs can help women build on previous skills and experiences, and develop a new set of basic skills that will help them succeed on the job and in advanced training programs. Overview of pre-vocational training program components Types of pre-vocational training Pre-vocational training providers Overview of Pre-vocational Training Program Components Successful pre-vocational training programs offer pre-vocational and math skills training and physical conditioning training that will enable women to excel in nontraditional occupations. Pre-Vocational Skills—Many women lack basic pre-vocational skills, such as tool identification and use that men often learn from fathers, peers and vocational high school classes. Many women have been discouraged from taking vocational education classes other than home economics or typing. Successful NTO pre-vocational training programs offer instruction in identification and use of tools, blueprint reading, basic shop skills and safety procedures. Math Skills—Math is required for most technical and trade occupations. For numerous reasons, many women lack the skills and confidence to do math. Successful NTO pre-vocational training programs should help women overcome their math fears and provide instruction in computation, fractions, measurements and spatial problem solving. Physical Conditioning—Many women need to develop the upper body strength that would enable them to do the heavy lifting required by many nontraditional occupations. Physical conditioning for NTOs should focus on the upper body strength and endurance necessary for heavy lifting. Return to top Types of Pre-vocational Programs Within any community you may find a variety of training providers supporting a variety of pre-vocational training programs. Different programs offer different things. Here are some of the types of pre-vocational training: GED Preparation Classes—As a prerequisite, many apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs require participants to have either their high school diploma or their GED. In addition to meeting program prerequisites, GED preparation can help strengthen math and literacy skills for women entering nontraditional occupations. For examples of pre-vocational, GED preparation program, see Mi Camino, a program of the Mi Casa Resource Center for Women in Denver, Colorado. School to Pre-Apprenticeship Programs—Generally, students involved in school to pre-apprenticeship work on a part-time basis during the school year and often full-time during the summer. In some states with pre-apprenticeship programs, the academic and technical education of participants is coordinated to optimize the relationship between work and the classroom. Ideally, these programs create a smooth transition between school and participation full apprenticeships. For more information about School-to Pre-Apprenticeship, see article in the Journal of Industrial Teacher Education. Pre-Vocational Training Programs—These programs can be combination training and transitional support. A successful pre-vocational program will often combine elements of math and other skills (pre-GED) training, physical conditioning, tools use and recognition, and nontraditional career exploration. For an example of a pre-vocational training programs, see Wider Opportunities for Women's Work Skills Program and the Cincinnati YMCA's Nontraditional Jobs Program. Pre-Apprenticeship—Pre-apprenticeship is similar to apprenticeship, except that expectations are lower. Pre-apprenticeship offers those presently unqualified for apprenticeship an opportunity to gain the skills necessary to enter apprenticeship. Deficiencies, in areas such as math, verbal skills and attitude, can be corrected on the job and in the classroom. The pre-apprentice is introduced to a trade, achieves some basic academic and hands-on knowledge of the trade, and gains an understanding of apprenticeship expectations. For an example of state information about pre-apprenticeship, see the Washington State: Work-based Learning Resource Center pre-apprenticeship information/resource page. For an example of union sponsored pre-apprenticeship, see this Portland, Oregon, Union Sheet Metal Training Center pre-apprenticeship information. Return to top Pre-Vocational Training Providers In your community several organizations may offer pre-vocational training programs, including: State government employment service offices High schools Union/employer joint apprenticeship and training committees Community colleges Contractors (e.g., construction companies) Nonprofit organizations To locate a pre-vocational training program near you: Contact your local Department of Employment Services; Search Work4Women's Database of Nontraditional Employment Training Programs. If you offer a pre-vocational training program, list your training program on Work4Women.     | Home | Contact | Search/Sitemap | User Guides | Events | Internet Guide | Email Lists | Copyright © 1998, Wider Opportunities for Women, All Rights Reserved.