Succeeding in the world of work requires understanding the "rules of the game". A 200-hour apprenticeship at Express Bike Shop is a comprehensive introduction to employment:
Working side-by-side with experienced mechanics, all of our youth apprentices complete an introduction to functional bicycle maintenance and repair.
Apprentices are thoroughly schooled in the daily shop responsibilities including customer service, ordering and stocking items in the retail area, preparing bank deposits and paying the bills. These efforts put them on track for a Small Business Certification.
As they gain experience, they are introduced to higher-level business concepts like reading financial statements, developing advertising strategies, and selecting the merchandise mix on the retail floor.
Meet Ryan, who became a youth apprentice during a pandemic
Ryan was finding it difficult to stay motivated. Stuck in his house doing school online during the pandemic, he found it challenging stay on top of things and feel connected. But when he discovered the opportunity to be a Youth Apprentice at Express Bike Shop, Ryan felt reinvigorated.
For Ryan, Express Bike Shop was the perfect opportunity to get out of the house and into something new. “I’d probably be sitting at home on my computer doing nothing productive otherwise, so thank goodness I got a job and really enjoy working here,” he laughs.
Ryan feels that the extensive training he received as a Youth Apprentice, from learning to tighten brakes to gaining communication and interview skills, has helped him plan for his future and understand that he thrives when solving problems and working with his hands. “The way they taught us was really helpful,” he says. “Learning even more new things was really, really good.”
In a world devoid of in-person social interaction, Ryan is especially grateful for the opportunity to be face-to-face with his peers because it’s kept him encouraged through these difficult times. “My favorite thing about working here is entering the shop,” he explains. “I like seeing the smiles; even through the masks, you can tell that everyone is smiling.”
Interested?
Since 1995, over 400 young people have successfully completed a paid apprenticeship at Express Bike Shop. If you are at least 14 years old and would like more information about the program, please call Express Bike Shop for more information.