Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships
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.
Apprenticeships Make a Difference
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.
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.
About Our Apprenticeships
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
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
I have enjoyed the apprenticeship program immensely! I learned so much about maintenance at this shop. I learned welding, got comfortable with using power tools, learned a ton about the company, and even got to go to school for diesel technology. I think the schooling I received was one of the biggest benefits. My time as an apprentice has given me the skills to do my job confidently, and grown me into the maintenance tech I am today.
Susanna Boysen, Maintenance Mechanic
Apprenticeship Program Employee Benefits:
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.
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
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!