Apprenticeship is a proven training method whereby an apprentice, with the support and commitment of the employer and/or the training program, becomes proficient in a specific trade. The training lasts a specified length of time, typically between one (1) and five (5) years. An apprenticeship program covers all aspects of the trade and includes both on-the-job training and related instruction. Apprenticeship does not require that an individual have any experience in the occupation, so it is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking for a long-term career path, but who do not possess any specific training

Related instruction generally takes place in a classroom, but may be offered through correspondence coursework or distance learning. The specific related instruction covers the techniques of the trade and also the theory behind the techniques. It includes detailed discussion of how typical tasks are preformed and the safety precautions that must be taken. The related instruction will also prepare apprentices for any licensing exam that they may be required to take. Apprentices do not pay for their related instruction costs, with the possible exception of purchasing books. Apprentices typically are not paid for the time that they are in class, and classes are typically held at night or on the weekend.

During the on-the-job training, apprentices work under experienced workers known as journey workers, the status they will attain after successfully completing their apprenticeships. Under the journey worker's guidance, the apprentice gradually learns the specifics and details of the trade and performs more and more duties individually. An apprentice's pay starts out at about 45% to 50% of a journey worker's wages and increases periodically throughout the apprenticeship. Increases in pay are based on the apprentice's successful completion of the required related instruction and on-the-job training.

The sponsor of the apprenticeship program plans, administers, and pays for the program. Sponsors can be employers or employer associations and sometimes involve a union. When an apprentice is accepted into a program, he or she and the sponsor sign an apprenticeship agreement. The apprentice agrees to perform the work faithfully and complete the related study. The sponsor agrees to make every effort to keep the apprentice employed and to comply with standards established for the program. The National Apprenticeship Act of 1937 (also called the Fitzgerald Act) authorized the Secretary of Labor to work with the State apprenticeship agencies, the Department of Education, and the representatives of labor and management for the welfare of the apprentices. This Act also promotes the establishment of apprenticeship programs.

Apprenticeship programs are registered with the Federal Government or a federally approved state agency. Registered programs meet federally approved standards relating to job duties, related instruction (a minimum of 144 hours), wages, and safety and health conditions. Apprentices who successfully complete registered programs receive certificates of completion from the State Apprenticeship Council and these certificates are honored and recognized throughout the country. Graduates of registered programs increase their potential job mobility because employers have greater confidence in the quality of the training received in registered programs.

Apprenticeship programs and the registration process are administered by the New Mexico State Apprenticeship Council, located within the Department of Workforce Solutions. The qualifications for an apprenticeship program, the selection process, and applications are maintained by each of the programs and are unique to each program. The following is a list of the programs that are currently registered by the State Apprenticeship Council. Not all programs will have openings for new apprentices, or will be accepting applications throughout the year, so it is important for interested parties to contact the programs directly for specific information and opportunities that may be available.

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