What is Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA)?

Missouri’s Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA) program is a structured, earn-and-learn career pathway that connects high school students with employers in high-demand industries. The program integrates rigorous classroom instruction with paid, on-the-job training, allowing students to gain industry-recognized credentials, college credit, and real-world experience while still in high school.

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) oversees the program, ensuring alignment with federal and state apprenticeship standards. RYA serves as a bridge between secondary education, postsecondary training, and career readiness, helping students seamlessly transition into the workforce or further education.

How Does RYA Benefit Students, Employers, and Educators?

For Students

• Gain hands-on experience in a chosen career field while still in high school.
• Earn wages while learning valuable technical and professional skills.
• Obtain industry-recognized credentials and college credit, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.
• Reduce or eliminate student loan debt by starting a career pathway early.
• Build professional network connections with local and statewide employers.

For Employers

• Access a talented pipeline of young, motivated workers trained specifically for their industry.
• Reduce recruitment and training costs by investing in future employees.
• Build a workforce with customized skill sets aligned with business needs.
• Enhance employee retention by providing career advancement opportunities.
• Benefit from state and federal incentives, including potential tax credits and funding support.

For Educators and Schools

• Strengthen career and technical education (CTE) programs by aligning classroom instruction with real-world application.
• Increase student engagement by offering career-connected learning experiences.
• Establish strong partnerships with local businesses and industries.
• Prepare students for high-demand, high-wage careers while improving post-graduation success rates.

Students, employers, and educators interested in launching or expanding an RYA program can learn more by contacting DESE’s Career Pathways Division. Explore opportunities, find an apprenticeship, or start a partnership today!

For more information contact Linda Stinson, Program Manager of Missouri Career Pathways, at linda.stinson@dese.mo.gov.

RYA Informational Flyer and Map

• Find the flyer here.
• Find the map here.