RYA signing celebrates new HVAC apprentices

Two Springfield Public Schools students signed with the Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA) program at the SPS General Services Center on June 2, 2026.
The students chose a career-focused path, signing to participate in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) pathway with SPS’ facilities team.
RYA student apprentices:

The RYA program is designed to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce, ensuring students graduate success-ready with the technical and professional skills required in a rapidly changing workforce.
Through this program, students earn while they learn, gaining:
- Competitive Pay: Opportunities to earn up to $25 per hour.
- Hands-on Experience: Direct industry training using state-of-the-art equipment.
- Academic Credit: Valuable education credits earned toward graduation while working on-site.
This program is a cornerstone of SPS’ commitment to providing diverse, meaningful options for students to prepare for life after high school. By integrating paid, career-focused experiences into the high school curriculum, the district is helping to build a sustainable pipeline of talent for Springfield’s industrial sector.