Apprenticeship is a workforce development strategy that trains a worker for a specific occupation using a structured combination of paid on-the-job training and related instruction. Apprenticeship is one of the oldest forms of training.
The largest federal role in supporting apprenticeships is the administration of the registered apprenticeship system, which dates back to 1937 with the passage of the Fitzgerald Act (known as the National Apprenticeship Act).
In this system, the federal Department of Labor (DOL) or a DOL-recognized state apprenticeship agency (SAA) is responsible for evaluating apprenticeship programs to determine if they are in compliance with federal regulations related to program design, worker protections, and other criteria. Programs that are in compliance are “registered” and apprentices who complete a registered program receive a nationally recognized credential.
Apprenticeship is limited to skilled occupations and trades that meet basic criteria. Apprenticeable occupations are: 1) customarily learned in a practical way through a structured, systematic program of on-the-job supervised training supplemented by related technical instruction; 2) clearly identified and commonly recognized throughout an industry; and 3) involve the acquisition of manual or technical skills and knowledge. There are currently over 950 occupations that have been recognized as apprenticeable, and occupations are continually being added to the list.
Registered apprenticeship programs represent an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a portable, nationally-recognized credential.
According to the US Department of Labor, 94 percent of apprentices who complete an apprenticeship retain employment, with an average annual salary of $80,000.
Registered apprenticeship programs can serve as a valuable pathway for those seeking clean energy and climate careers, and for employers seeking to build their workforce. In 2023, there were 23,949 registered apprentices in the energy industry, a 44 percent increase over the past 5 years.
To support job seekers and employers who are interested in exploring apprenticeships, Green Jobs Network has launched ClimateApprenticeships.com.
ClimateApprenticeships.com features an overview of apprenticeships, sources to locate them, and information for employers who are interested in offering apprenticeships.
This launch also celebrates the 10th Annual National Apprenticeship Week, which will take place from November 17-23, 2024. You can learn more about National Apprenticeship Week and explore events here.
