The Will Allen Foundation is excited to announce the launch of Blueprint for Success, a Pittsburgh-based apprenticeship program created in partnership with enGen, a Highmark Health subsidiary and one of the region’s leading employers. This program offers a clear path into a stable career for students and recent graduates who are looking for job training and career opportunities without the cost of college.
Blueprint for Success provides free training, paid hands-on experience, and guaranteed job placement. Participants earn while they learn and graduate with real work experience and no student debt.
Blueprint for Success is a paid apprenticeship program that prepares participants for career placement as an Associate Print Shop Operator at enGen. Apprentices receive on-the-job training, professional development, and select company benefits during the program, along with a higher wage upon successful completion.
This first cohort is designed for individuals exploring alternatives to college who want practical skills, consistent pay, and long-term career opportunities in Pittsburgh.
The apprenticeship runs from July 2026 through June 2027 and is based on Pittsburgh’s North Side. Training is delivered in phases so participants can build confidence and skills over time.
Months 1 to 3: Foundational Skills
Participants spend 50 percent of their time in professional development focused on communication, problem-solving, and using AI tools. The remaining 50 percent is spent on on-the-job training, including transactional printing, job shadowing, and workplace safety.
Months 3 to 6: Continued Professional Development
Training shifts to 25 percent professional development, including public speaking, networking, and resume building, and 75 percent hands-on job training.
Months 6 and Beyond: Full-Time Training and Delivery
Participants continue learning on the job with ongoing support from managers and mentors.
Apprentices gain hands-on experience across all aspects of print shop operations in a fast-paced, professional environment. Training includes operating and maintaining print equipment, managing inventory and fulfilling customer orders, performing quality control and pulling samples for testing, learning binding and finishing techniques, understanding machine maintenance and repair processes, and gaining exposure to next-generation technology and industry-leading vendors.
In addition to technical training, participants take part in workshops, mentorship, and professional development designed to strengthen communication skills, workplace readiness, and long-term career growth.
Blueprint for Success is designed to remove common barriers to employment and career advancement. The program offers free tuition, no student debt, guaranteed job placement, paid training with select benefits, and a clear pathway into a high-demand career. Participants earn income while gaining skills that lead to stable, long-term employment.
This program is well suited for students and young adults who want a practical alternative to college and a career they can build on.
You may be a good fit if you are interested in hands-on, technical work, want a clear path to employment, and are ready to commit to a structured training program. This opportunity is ideal for individuals seeking career growth and job stability in the Pittsburgh region.
If you are unsure whether this program is right for you, we encourage you to apply or share this opportunity with someone who may benefit.
Applications are now open for the Blueprint for Success Apprenticeship Cohort.
CLICK HERE to submit your interest form. Questions or referrals can be sent to angelique@willallenfoundation.com.
If you are searching for paid job training, careers without college, or apprenticeship programs in Pittsburgh with guaranteed job placement, Blueprint for Success offers a clear and supported path forward.