Welcome to the STRA Program Web Site "Educator Information" Page!
This page provides high school and post high school instructors and counselors with important information about the STRA Program, and why it is critical for those in education to be able to present program information to students when discussing high school and post high school education and training options.
Those in education are already aware of the "skilled" labor shortage many businesses are experiencing though out the U.S. This shortage affects a very large number of employers representing a variety of industries and occupations.
Michigan's Career Preparation System focuses on activities that help students plan and prepare for today's occupations and careers, including:
- Career exploration, awareness, and decision making,
- Applied academics and coursework in real world context,
- Up-to-date technology skill training in the classroom and work setting,
- High school and post high school education and training opportunities and options leading to the successful obtainment of occupational and career goals, including life long education, training, and employment opportunities.
While academics are most certainly key to a student's future career plans, the majority of available employment opportunities do require post high school education and training, but not necessarily the 4-5 year college degree. Many high-skill, high-wage, good benefit positions require those individuals who posses:
- Good core academics and high quality technical skill training,
- And demonstrates good work ethics, such as attendance, performing quality work, and showing responsibility.
While a large number of students begin the 4-5 year degree program, only 20% or less actually finish. Those who do complete may find it difficult to secure degree related employment due to lack of experience. It is clear that the most successful means of career training combines classroom instruction with "on-the-job" training.
Stra Programs:
- Provide high school and post high school program activities that combine career and occupational classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training.
- As an extension of the Federal Apprenticeship Program, is highly structured and formalized. Instructional curriculum and job site training plans are developed by the employer and high school and post high school technical instructional staff, and provide detailed information regarding tasks to be learned and the number of hours to be spent on each task.
- Invites and encourages all interested students to apply regardless of academic performance, work experience, or financial means to apply. Students need only complete each activity in the program "Selection Process" to granted interviews with sponsoring employers.
- Works with employers who provide student apprentices, upon graduation, guaranteed full time employment, including benefits and guaranteed wage increases.
- Require student participants continue classroom instruction at the local community college with the employer paying a portion or all of the tuition and fees.
- Provides training for over 800 careers and occupations, requiring anywhere from 2-5 years to complete, where upon the student receives a "Certificate of Completion" from the U.S. Department of Labor. These credentials identify an individual as "highly skilled" and are recognized by industry professionals nation wide!
High school instructors and counselors can present this program as one of the best post high school options available to students today!
Learn more about the STRA Program by clicking on to any desired topic, and receive information about a program every student should be aware of prior to making any career, education, and training decisions!
This site maintained by Career Planning Specialists
Software, Inc.
in cooperation with the STRA Consortium.