Elevate Your Future: Join Our Apprenticeship Program
Leonardo offers employees a range of hands-on apprenticeships through Pima Community College at our Tucson location. The apprenticeship follows an “earn while you learn” approach, combining paid, work-based training with classroom learning that has helped employees create and develop their career paths. Our apprentices gain important classroom knowledge while also acquiring valuable, real-world experience. Apprenticeships, on average, take one to four years to complete and are often competitive. The apprentice program also benefits the employer as they gain highly skilled workers, ensuring expertise and loyalty within the industry.
When the apprenticeship is completed, apprentices will receive a state-issued, federally recognized Completion of Apprenticeship Certificate and a journey worker credential.
If you are interested in being an apprentice, contact Human Resources.
Meet Our Apprentice
Luis Sanchez
Why did you decide to join Leonardo for your apprenticeship?
I decided to join the apprenticeship to get a state certification. I also got financial aid with my classes as I took them at Pima Community College, so it was also a great help getting back to school.
What does a typical day/week look like?
I come in at 5 am and receive my pass down from 3rd shift. I either start preparing for burn-in swaps or do Calibration on our testing stations if the 3rd shift hasn't gotten to them. Then, the rest of the shift, I spend preparing for burn-ins and doing other tests as needed such as reflectivity tests or any other initial or final testing. Some days, I might also be asked to do a little bit of assembly and work on TECs. I end the shift by giving my pass down verbally to the 2nd shift or by sending them an e-mail and making sure things are ready for them when they arrive.
How did you stay motivated and organized during your apprenticeship?
I tried to keep all the important deadlines written down on my phone’s calendar to stay organized and tried to enjoy my few days off by shutting myself away from anything work or school-related to avoid getting burnt out and stay motivated.
What have been your greatest achievements at Leonardo so far?
Doing the apprenticeship program and learning multiple testing and assembly processes during my time here at Leonardo.
What do you do outside of your apprenticeship?
I also work outside of my apprenticeship, and I am continuing my education by going for my Bachelor's through Northern Arizona University in Engineering Technology starting next Fall 2025.
Tell me about your mentor(s)? How have they influenced your experience and helped you grow?
David was a great influence on me in how to be a great tester by showing me his vast knowledge on multiple testing stations, and I feel that he helped me grow in being more professional and keeping up with industry standards.
How has your apprenticeship influenced your career goals/path?
My apprenticeship has influenced my career path by opening more opportunities for growth in this career field, showing me what else I can do from where I am right now, and how much more I have left to learn. It has also given me a goal to shoot for, career-wise, instead of staying complacent in my current position.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship and why?
I would recommend an apprenticeship. It's really great to get more knowledge on why things are done in manufacturing, and it’s also a great help in securing yourself as an employee and demonstrating that you have the drive to improve yourself in this career field.
What advice could you give to our future apprentices?
It's a lot of work, but it's worth it, and there's a lot of help provided through Leonardo with mentors and past apprentices. It's a great way to demonstrate you have the drive to further your career goals and get more of a secure education to help achieve those goals.
Leonardo Electronics US Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.