The event was sponsored by the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce. And CEO LaDrina Wilson says the chamber helps local businesses find young people who want to explore possible technical careers.
"Our American culture has really propped up this four year college university experience when the realities are where there are the most growth opportunities and where there are some of the gaps in terms of skilled workforce are really those very hands-on - whether they're union positions or very technical skilled positions."
The students signed up to work for 15 companies such as John Deere, Elliott Aviation, and Davenport Electric. And they'll train for careers as welders, auto mechanics, certified nursing assistants, and emts.
"We see our student athletes that have these signing days that are propped up and exciting for their parents and the communities to get involved in. And that's important work but so are our machinists and our welders and the other careers that are represented."
The new apprentices come from nine Quad Cities area high schools.