Why Community Colleges Should Become Apprenticeship Sponsors

You can probably imagine why Registered Apprenticeships are valuable to both employers and apprentices, but it may come as a surprise that community colleges also benefit from Apprenticeship Programs.

Every Apprenticeship requires On-the-Job training  (OJT) and Related Technical Instruction (RTI) to make sure apprentices master the skills needed for the job. Community colleges are well positioned to provide RTI.

The real benefits begin when community colleges become Program Sponsors themselves.

What is a Registered Apprenticeship Sponsor?

Every Registered Apprenticeship Program requires Program Sponsors to handle a variety of tasks. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Program Sponsors can:

• Design and execute the Apprenticeship
• Provide jobs to apprentices
• Oversee training development
• Deliver hands-on learning and technical instruction to apprentices 

Registered Apprenticeship Sponsors partner with businesses and industries to create and register Apprenticeship programs with the U.S. DOL. Sponsors play a critical role in overseeing the program and ensuring apprentices receive needed training and support on the job. 

Sponsors also help ensure the program meets DOL standards for Apprenticeship, which include: 

• Providing a structured training program that includes on-the-job training and related instruction
• Meeting federal and state laws and regulations
• Developing and maintaining a clear, written agreement between the sponsor, apprentice, and employer
• Providing opportunities for advancement and promoting from within 

There are many entities that can become Apprenticeship Sponsors, including businesses, labor unions, trade or industry groups, and educational institutions. As sponsors, community colleges can offer resources and expertise to develop and deliver training curriculum and provide ongoing support to apprentices. 

How Can Community Colleges Benefit from Becoming Apprenticeship Sponsors?

Employers and apprentices aren't the only beneficiaries of Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs). Community colleges also benefit from being a RAP Sponsor.

Sponsoring Apprenticeships offers an added benefit to existing and future students, who can gain valuable on-the-job training and earn a good income while completing their education. This benefit can increase college enrollment and retention while providing a pathway for students to enter in-demand careers.

The programs also build relationships between the community college and local businesses and industries, which, besides providing these entities with skilled workers, helps support economic development in the community. 

Finally, becoming a Sponsor helps community colleges diversify their revenue streams. Funding from the federal government and industry partners can be used to develop Apprenticeship curriculums.

How Does a Community College Become an Apprenticeship Sponsor?

The educational community strives to find committed students to attend their programs and the business community seeks workers with specific skills in a tightened labor pool. These separate goals can connect through a partnership that bridges these gaps. 

A community college can become an Apprenticeship Program Sponsor by partnering with local businesses and industries to create and register Apprenticeship programs with the U.S. DOL. 

The following six steps can guide your community college’s goal of becoming an Apprenticeship Sponsor:

1. Do Your Homework. Research and identify in-demand industries and occupations in the local area that align with the college’s programs.
2. Pick Partners. Meet with local businesses and organizations in these in-demand industries and develop partnerships with companies that are interested in creating Apprenticeship programs.
3. Follow the Law. Register the Apprenticeship Program with the U.S. DOL and state Apprenticeship agencies. This process includes submitting a program description, training plan, and Standards of Apprenticeship. Learn more about developing Standards of Apprenticeship here.
4. Create Curriculum. Work with industry partners to develop and deliver a training curriculum that meets the needs of the intended Apprenticeship program.
5. Keep Up the Good Work. Monitor and support the progress of apprentices throughout the program. Provide resources for apprentices' success and make sure they progress as expected.
6. Recognize Students. Give apprentices credentials and certifications for completing the program.

The specific requirements for registering for an Apprenticeship program can vary between states and industries. Community colleges should consult with the U.S. DOL and state Apprenticeship agencies for guidance on the specific requirements and procedures for registering an Apprenticeship Program in their area.

Related Content: Training Approaches in Registered Apprenticeship Programs

Become Part of a Winning Strategy for Skilled Labor

U.S. Apprenticeship programs are growing. In 2020 alone, 3,143 new programs were established—a 73% increase since 2009. The number of active registered apprentices also grew by 51% during that time, according to U.S. DOL research.

The U.S. DOL also reports a high success rate with these programs—92% of apprentices retain employment after completing their Apprenticeship Programs and most earn an average starting salary of $72,000. 

There is a proven track record of results for both employers and workers. But without community college participation, this success becomes more difficult to achieve. A significant portion of Apprenticeship Program success depends on local educational institutions delivering hands-on training and technical instruction.

Increased student retention, community connections, and an injection of state and federal funding are some benefits community colleges can expect when they become Apprenticeship Program Sponsors.

Employers, workers, and educational institutions all benefit from Apprenticeship programs. Community colleges can use these benefits to be part of a winning skilled labor strategy.