Collaboration for Employment and Education Synergy

An engineering pre-apprenticeship offers hands-on training in engineering basics, problem-solving, and technical skills for apprenticeships or entry-level roles in mechanical, electrical, civil, or software engineering.

Pre-Apprenticeship Components:

1. Technical Training
2. Work-Based Learning Experiences
3. Supportive Services
4. Career Exploration

Benefits of Program:

• Hand-on training with engineering tools and software
• Prepares for entry-level technician roles or engineering apprenticeships
• Builds problem-solving and design thinking skills
• Helps students explore different engineering disciplines before specialization

Skills You Will Learn: 

• Introduction to Drafting & Drawing
• Advanced Drafting Techniques
• CAD Software Training
• Additive Manufacturing Technologies
  • 3D Printing
• Circuit Drafting & Design

Work-based Learning Partners:

• Enable Cincy
• May We Help
• RX Gaming
• Siemens
• The Bridge Adaptive Sports & Recreation

Additional Certification:

SOLIDWORKS - A SOLIDWORKS Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates proficiency in using SOLIDWORKS, a leading computer-aided design (CAD) software used for 3D modeling, engineering design, and product development. These certifications help validate technical skills in mechanical design, simulation, and manufacturing processes.

A hospitality pre-apprenticeship provides foundational training in customer service, food handling, housekeeping, and event planning, to prepare participants for entry-level roles or apprenticeships in hotels, restaurants, and tourism through a mix of classroom learning and hands-on experience.

Pre-Apprenticeship Components:

• Technical Training
• Work-Based Learning Experiences
• Supportive Services
• Career Exploration

Benefits of Program:

• Builds Essential Skills: Learn customer service, food safety, and workplace professionalism
• Hands-On Experience: Gain real-world practice in restaurants, hotels, and event venues
• Boosts Employability: Secure entry-level jobs or move into a full apprenticeship
• Provides Certifications: Earn industry-recognized credentials like ServSafe
• Career Exploration: Discover different hospitality career paths before committing

Skills You Will Learn: 

• Customer Service & Communication
• Food & Beverage Service
• Housekeeping & Maintenance
• Front Desk & Reservations
• Workplace Safety & Hygiene
• Teamwork & Leadership
• Self-Determination Skills - (Goal Setting, Goal Attainment and Self-Monitoring

Work-based Learning Partners:

• CVS
• Chicago Gyro
• Hampton Inn
• Hotel Celare
• Sodexo
• University of Cincinnati Housing Department

IT pre-apprenticeship provides foundational technical and workplace skills essential for careers in digital literacy, IT support, cybersecurity, software development, and networking. These programs equip participants with the knowledge and experience needed to pursue entry-level positions or advance into full apprenticeships in the technology field.

Additional Certification:

Introduced to entry-level IT Certifications (CompTIA A+, Google IT Support, Cisco CCNA)

IT Pre-Apprenticeship Components:

1. Technical Training
2. Work-Based Learning Experiences
3. Supportive Services
4. Career Exploration

Skills You Will Learn: 

• Computer Hardware & Software
• Networking Basics
• Cybersecurity Fundamentals
• Data Management & Databases
• Programming & Coding Basics
• Communication & Teamwork
• Self-Determination Skills - Goal Setting, Goal Attainment and Self-Monitoring

Benefits of Program:

• Hands-on learning with real-world IT tools and software
• Builds confidence for entry-level IT jobs or apprenticeships
• Provides industry-recognized certification pathways
• Helps learners explore IT career paths before committing

Work-based Learning Partner:

Provides unique and critical services to Individuals, Organizations, and the Community.

CEES Individual Programming offers individualized comprehensive transition services for high school students with disabilities, with an IEP, providing a tailored approach to enhance academic, social, and vocational skills. Through a combination of classroom instruction, campus engagement, and community partnerships, students receive support in navigating post-secondary education and career pathways. These services are designed to foster independence, self-advocacy, and readiness for future employment or continued education, ensuring each student’s unique needs and goals are met.

Program Components: 

Programming Includes: Career exploration, community-based internship, technical training, explicit instruction in both soft and hard employment skills.

• Social communication instruction supported by speech team
• Development of independent living skills
• Social networking
• Health and wellness programming
• Travel training
• Access to pre-apprenticeship programs
• Transition planning and support

Benefits of Program:

• Near peer support model
• Campus-based services
• Opportunity to generalize skills
• One on one support can be provided when appropriate
• Customized curriculum-based services

CEES Summer Camp is a 6-week community-integrated summer camp for high school students with IEPs, ages 14-22. Students will engage in internships, social curriculum, goal setting, and goal attainment, and will be supported with “near-peer” staffing on campus at the University of Cincinnati.

Learning Activities

• Social Communication

• Career Exploration

• STEM Curriculum

• Self-determination & Goal Setting

Dates & Schedule

• June 9 – July 23, 2026 (off week of 6/30)

• Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays

• 9 AM – 1 PM

Cost & Payment

• $3,000 per student

• Payment Options: Private pay

Transportation

• Transportation to and from campus may be available. More information to follow.

Learn More & Apply

• Deadline: May 1, 2026

Questions?

• Contact: Maddie Baumer, Director of CEES

• Email: nolandmc@ucmail.uc.edu