Program Description
TECHS, Technician Education for Careers out of High School, is an apprenticeship for Illinois high school rising seniors who have a strong interest in learning technical skills that can lead to careers as technicians at Fermilab. An applicant must be a junior at the time of applying. The program duration is 10 weeks for each of two consecutive summers. During the first summer, apprentices learn basic electrical and mechanical skills and are introduced to careers at Fermilab. During the second summer, apprentices work alongside lab technicians on tasks that support the lab’s science mission. Apprentices who complete the two-summer program are qualified to apply for entry-level technician positions at Fermilab upon graduation from high school.
During each summer, apprentices are mentored by lab spokespersons and program teachers who provide instruction on projects and necessary technical skills.
The TECHS Apprenticeship serves as a pipeline program for future Fermilab technicians. The program aims to support and generate the next generation of professional technicians.
This video provides more information about Fermilab Technicians and the essential work they do to support the science mission.
Annually, the TECHS cohort is 5 students.
Eligibility
- 2024-2025 high school juniors (at time of application, the student must be a junior).
- Illinois high school enrollment
- Eligible to work in the United States
Application Procedure
Before applying have all requirements ready. Once submitted, access to the application will no longer be available to upload any missing requirements.
- Online application – Application Walkthrough Video Guide
- A personal statement that answers the below questions. The statement can be written or presented in a 5-minute video linked to your resume. (Please do not attempt to upload a video to the application. The application cannot support video uploads. You can upload the video to YouTube and link it on your resume.)
- What are your interests, hobbies, and activities that demonstrate hands-on technical tasks and projects? These could take place at school and/or at home.
- What classes do you plan to take that are STEM and technical?
- What plans are you considering for when you graduate from high school?
- Unofficial transcript
- Two letters of recommendation (Due date is application close date).
- Reference 1 – a STEM teacher (e.g. science, math, shop, automotive technology, Project Lead the Way, etc.)
- Reference 2 – a club/activity teacher sponsor
- After submitting an application, the applicant will receive an email request to provide contact information for individuals writing letters of recommendation. An email link will be sent to identified references to upload their letter of recommendation. Note, reference links are sent only to the individual writing the letter of recommendation and only emailed during normal business hours, Monday through Friday.)
Apprenticeship Details
- Application Period: Late 2024 – Early 2025
- Program Dates:
- TBA
- TBA
- Offer Date: TBA
- Salary: $17.20
- Transportation/Housing: Fermilab does not provide housing, meals, or any transportation.
Deliverables
- Oral presentation
- Exit survey