Apprentice Spotlight: Andre Paisley

Andre Paisley is a junior at ASU Local DC and a Project Coordinator Apprentice at Jobs for the Future (JFF) through CareerWise DC. In his role, he manages workflow tracking across the team using Asana, coordinates task progress, and helps keep projects on track during meetings. He came to CareerWise DC as a Cardozo High School student through a connection from our colleagues at On-Ramps to Careers, looking for a new direction in his job search, and found one. Here is our Q&A with Andre:

What inspired you to apply for and the apprenticeship? How did you first hear about it?

I had received a tip about the opportunity from my contacts from On-Ramps where I completed an internship during high school at Cardozo High School. I had been applying for full-time positions for so long, and it wasn’t getting me the results I wanted. So when I learned about this apprenticeship, I realized I could pursue training in a different way, and I applied the second I saw the application opened.

Before joining the apprenticeship, what were your thoughts about the industry you're working in? Has that changed?

Before joining JFF, I knew apprenticeships existed, but I thought they were just like internships. My opinions changed after joining JFF. I understand now apprenticeship and internship are two very different things. Internship is a short period of time for experiencing a career option. But an apprenticeship is a job - for me that means working on a team that depends on my contributions to make things work.  Getting to learn in a work setting, contributing to a team, and getting paid at the same time is a game changer.

What's one technical skill you are developing during your apprenticeship?

I've been developing my knowledge of Asana, since more of my tasks are tracked there, and I've also been helping my colleagues track theirs. For my role as a project coordinator, it's my job to keep everyone's workflow in order and keep us on topic during meetings. Having everyone refer back to the Asana sheets I made really helps.

What's one durable skill you are developing?

I've been working on my communication skills. As I've grown at JFF, communication between my colleagues and me has gotten a lot better — whether it's about speaking to deadlines, updating tasks, or general upkeep.

What project, task, or achievement are you most proud of so far?

I'm most proud of being part of an extended project with a well-known sponsor and knowing that my skills and intellect are strong enough to contribute meaningfully to the team.

Can you share a challenge or obstacle you've faced and how you overcame it?

At one point I was struggling in my apprenticeship due to personal burnout. I explained to my team what was going on, and they not only helped me through it but also shared how they had navigated their own challenges. Their advice helped me move through it.

What's something you've learned about yourself through this apprenticeship?

I've learned that I am capable of functioning as a professional  - keeping workflows organized for others by using tools like Asana to streamline tasks.  I've also learned more about work-life balance in an office environment. At JFF, they encourage clear boundaries so that people have the time and energy to get tasks done.

How has this apprenticeship shaped your career goals?

This apprenticeship has made me think more carefully about my career plans and is making me consider a path in project coordination. My overall goal has been healthcare management, so it's not too far off. They are both project-centered careers. There are specific goals, needs of people and standards that must be met in each one, as well. 

What are your plans after you complete your apprenticeship?

I've considered continuing to work at JFF, since their work culture and goals align with mine. If that path doesn't open up, I can continue toward healthcare entrepreneurship.

How would you describe yourself before the apprenticeship versus now?

I have a lot more structure now. The earning and learning model is helping me acquire new skills in a way that works — it removes the conflict of trying to learn on my own time while working full time on a separate schedule.

Why do you think apprenticeships are valuable?

Apprenticeships provide learning and employment at the same time. They give employers the opportunity to shape new workers without expecting them to arrive with every skill already in place.

What would you say to an employer considering hosting an apprentice?

Do it. You will find engaged, capable people who are ready to make the most of the opportunity you're providing.