Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements?
To enroll in the school, students are required to have a valid driver’s license (not just state ID), a high school diploma or GED equivalent, and a reliable means of transportation.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program takes approximately 36 months of in-class time to complete, 12 months for Level 1 and 8 months each for Levels 2, 3, and 4. This does not include holidays, breaks, and closures. These included, it takes just under 4 full calendar years to complete.
How do I apply for the apprenticeship program?
Please see the “How to Enroll” page of our website. If an enrollment date has been announced, you may click the “Apply Now” button to begin the process. If a date has not been announced, you can fill out a form to be notified of the next date when it is announced.
What is the cost of the program?
Most students do not have any out-of-pocket expenses. As a new student, Achieve will cover the cost of tuition until the student is job placed. Once that happens, the contractor typically pays for the student’s tuition. Some contractors make contracts with the students to take a percentage of their paycheck to pay for school, with the agreement to reimburse the money upon completion of the program. If a student wishes to be self-pay, please email Laura Davis for more information. laura.d@achievetn.net
Is financial aid available?
No.
Can I still work while attending school?
Yes. If you are currently employed, we encourage you to keep working there while you start school. After you have met some basic requirements for job placement, we will give you ample time to give a proper notice to you current employer before starting with a new contractor.
What is the job placement process?
Once a student has met the requirements for job placement, they will be sent to one of several contractors that we have relationships with for a full time job.
What is the class schedule?
The schedule changes for each level.
Level 1 - Monday/Tuesday or Wednesday/Thursday - 6pm-8pm
Level 2 - Monday/Tuesday or Wednesday/Thursday - 4pm-6pm
Level 3 - Thursday - 4pm-7pm
Level 4 - Wednesday- 4pm-7pm
What are the schools hours?
Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday, 10am-8pm
Is Achieve Trade School accredited?
Yes, we are accredited by the NCCER and we are considered a post-secondary education by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.
What certifications or licenses will I earn by completing this program?
Completing our program earns you NCCER certifications stating that you have satisfactorily completed their curriculum. While the program does not get you any license, it will prepare you to take the exams required to obtain said license.
Do I need to buy a bunch of tools to start?
No, not immediately. Achieve will loan you tools to use while you are at school. However, once you are placed with a contractor, you will need to buy your own tools.
Is the curriculum offered in other languages.
No. While some handouts and tests may be available in other languages, classes will be taught in English.
Are credits transferrable?
This is a case-by-case basis. If you are transferring from one NCCER program to another NCCER program, then the credits will transfer. If either program is not NCCER accredited, then the credits will most likely not transfer. In the case credits do not transfer, there is an option to test out of a level.
What is the school dress code?
Dress code in school is as follows: No sleeveless shirts, no frayed clothing, and no open-toed shoes (ex. crocs, flip-flops)
What is the starting pay once I am job placed?
Pay will be determined by the contractors and each is different. Generally, you can expect to start out between $18-$22/hour.
Who should I contact with any further questions?
Laura Davis
laura.d@achievetn.net