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Apprenticeship ProgramSonoco Apprentice logo

At Sonoco, the growth and development of our associates is a top priority, which is why we are proud to offer a variety of apprenticeship opportunities across the organization. Driven by our mission to develop employees with hands-on training and education to build a skilled and future-ready workforce, our apprenticeships combine academic and technical instruction with paid work experience — preparing associates for a rewarding career in advanced manufacturing.

With an apprenticeship, you start with a job and build a career. We’ll help you identify which of our four apprenticeship program paths is right for you! While most opportunities are based in the U.S., with programs available at a variety of Sonoco locations across the country, global opportunities are also available, offering a broader perspective on Sonoco’s worldwide operations.

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Our Apprenticeship Programs

Youth Apprenticeship

For high school juniors or seniors

Professional Apprenticeship

For current technical school students or those that will be attending

Fast-Track Apprenticeship

For recent technical school graduates

Career Change Apprenticeship

For current Sonoco team members looking to make a career change

You May Know More About Us Than You Realize

Did you know that you probably touch our products every single day? That's because Sonoco is responsible for making much of the packaging you use daily!

As a global leader in packaging since 1899, we're part of the supply chain for everything from candy to drink packaging to industrial materials and consumer packaging. Some of our many products include paper cans for stacked chips and reels and cores for construction.

Hear From a Former Apprentice

The Sonoco apprenticeship program allowed me to explore many different areas of the manufacturing field and has given me the opportunity to learn from many individuals! I am currently a manufacturing automation controls specialist on the Sonoco Automation Team, and the apprenticeship program helped me realize that I enjoy automation and robotics. I can't wait for my future with Sonoco and automating the future of manufacturing!

Parker Kirven, Manufacturing Automation Controls Specialist

Sonoco’s Apprenticeship Program is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor. 

We are committed to developing high-quality workers while meeting nationally recognized training standards. 

The benefits listed below may vary depending on program.

Apprenticeship Program Employee Benefits:

Hands-on Education
Real-World Work Experience
Mentorship
Flexible Work Schedule
Friendly, Safe & Inclusive Culture
Earn While You Learn (Competitive Pay)
100% of Tuition Paid Upfront (if in School)
Journey Worker Certification Upon Completion
Hear From A Leader

In keeping with our founding belief that "people build businesses," finding and investing in people via our apprenticeship program is the core of what will sustain and grow this great company for the next 125 years.

Palace Stepps, Vice President/General Manager - Paper Products & Fiber Supply

Sonoco's Youth Apprenticeship Program

Get real-world experience, payment for training and on-the-job learning in a friendly environment where you can grow your skills.

Interested in an Apprenticeship?

If you are interested in Sonoco’s Apprenticeship Program or you are a high school or technical school representative and would like for Sonoco to visit your school, let us know!