4-H youth development apprenticeship program: A pilot of a new certification in youth development

The field of youth development is expanding, requiring 4-H Extension staff to gain expertise in the field without leaving their jobs to return to school. This 2004 apprenticeship program was developed under the guidance of NAE4-HA and the National 4-H Council through funding from the U.S. Department of Labor. An evaluation of the pilot found staff gained numerous skills needed to effectively serve youth and took greater interest and enthusiasm in their jobs, but no statistically significant differences resulted between pre-to postests on youth development constructs. There was a statistically significant gain in the respondents believing they had an opportunity for promotion. A small sample size, limited time, and need to further develop training techniques may have influenced the results.