Apprenticeship programs can occur in many occupations. They are most common in industries that employ traditional skilled trades workers, such as construction crews, electricians and plumbers, but are quickly expanding to new industries including Information Technology, Financial Services, Health analysts, financial services representatives, medical assistants, culinary professionals, pharmacy technicians (again, to name a few). Many famous fashion designers, chefs, musicians, and visual artists started out as apprentices; Alexander McQueen and Stella MacCartney, Gordon Ramsey and Jamie Oliver, Elvis Presley, and Leonardo da Vinci, respectively.
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Apprenticeships allow [employers] to develop talent from the ground up, ensuring our team has the skills and mindset needed to drive our business forward.
To be recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor, Registered Apprenticeship Programs, frequently referred to as RAPs, have ten mandatory requirements – again, benefitting both the employer and the worker. In addition to the above mentioned structured on the job training (OJT) and related technical instruction (RTI), apprenticeship programs should include eight (8) other essential elements:
- Equal employment opportunity
- Paid employment
- A progressive wage schedule
- Safety and health training
- Program participant – or apprentice – protections
- Precise record keeping
- A complaint process
- An industry-recognized credential
Of course, suppose an employer does not take the route of a Registered Apprenticeship Program, which is not uncommon. In that case, unregistered apprenticeship programs are just as valuable for both the employer and the worker. It is imperative, however, that all types of apprenticeship programs have a structured OJT experience as well as an RTI component to the program to ensure learning occurs. Otherwise, no one benefits.
Essential Elements of Apprenticeship Programs
Apprentice Protections
Simply put, apprentice protections are labor standards that safeguard the welfare of apprentices. This may include equal access to facilities, paid time off, appropriate safety equipment, and a safe working environment. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) ensures equal opportunity in employment and fosters civil rights while prohibiting job discrimination. Paid employment guarantees program participants – or apprentices – are paid while working. This is one characteristic where apprenticeship programs may differ from other work-based learning programs, such as internships; apprentices must be paid workers.
Progressive Wage Schedules
A progressive wage schedule mandates that workers’ wages increase as they gain workforce knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors (KSABs) and demonstrate competence or proficiency in their chosen industry and occupation. In traditional skilled trades professions, progressive wage schedules include journey-level roles.
Health and Safety Training
Health and safety training is a critical element of apprenticeship to warrant a safe work environment. It is in the interest of both employer and employee that safety be maintained at all times, regardless of the work environment or occupational role. Employers must provide a safe work environment, and apprentices must receive training and instruction on the importance of safe and healthful work practices. Additionally, there are several instances where occupational standards and/or OSHA standards must be met and maintained. Food safety training via ServSafe is one example of safety and health training, while OSHA 10 is another.
Record Keeping and Compliance
In the world of Registered Apprenticeship, record keeping includes providing and preserving documentation relative to an apprentice’s qualifications, progress, training, and compliance, and any other aspect of the apprenticeship program, which may include tracking OJT (on-the-job training) and RTI (related technical instruction) hours, or any other apprenticeship participation hours deemed essential. Sponsors are required to maintain detailed records of the above to ensure they can prove that they're upholding their duties to the apprentice during regular USDOL & SAA audits.
Industry-Recognized Credentials
Last but certainly not least, an industry-recognized credential is one of the most essential elements of an apprenticeship program. For employers, this type of credential in occupations from data analytics to forklift operators indicates worker competence. For workers, this is a meaningful representation of achievement; a success, a momentous accomplishment.
Value of Apprenticeship
Consequently, the value of apprenticeship cannot be understated, for any industry or occupation. Ashley Dunn, workforce development professional and apprenticeship connoisseur agrees, “Apprenticeships allow [employers] to develop talent from the ground up, ensuring our team has the skills and mindset needed to drive our business forward.” The benefits and return on investment for employers and workers alike have not only utility value, but personal, intrinsic, and social values; values that are both important and worthwhile. In the words of the great Albert Einstein, who also began his career as an electrical apprentice, “strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value”.
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The value of apprenticeship cannot be understated, for any industry or occupation.
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