GitHub has launched a new six-month paid apprenticeship program called the "Octoprenticeship" to provide career development opportunities for individuals with non-traditional work and educational backgrounds, including those transitioning into tech from other fields, returning caregivers, and self-taught developers without formal degrees. This initiative aims to increase diversity by offering real-world experience and professional networking, benefiting both the apprentices and GitHub through the infusion of diverse perspectives and innovation. The program includes technical and non-technical roles, allowing apprentices to work alongside full-time employees on real projects and participate in learning opportunities and community engagement. GitHub has partnered with organizations like Path Forward, Sabio, and TechHire to support and develop the program, with the ultimate goal of converting apprentices into full-time roles while continuously improving the program based on feedback from participants.