Introduction to Registered Apprenticeship
Registered apprenticeship is a unique, flexible training model that combines structured on-the-job learning experiences with related classroom instruction to train individuals to a high industry-recognized standard. Additional core elements of registered apprenticeship include:
- Industry and individual employers design and control apprenticeship programs, and pay apprentices' wages
- Programs must be registered at either the federal or state level and include a minimum of 2,000 hours of structured and supervised on-the-job training with mentoring in addition to 144 hours of related classroom instruction per year
- Registered apprenticeships adhere to rigorous program standards
Partnership Between the HECC Office of Community Colleges and Workforce Development (CCWD) and Oregon's Community Colleges
CCWD collaborates with Oregon's 17 community colleges and the Oregon Community College Apprenticeship Consortium (OCCAC) to bring registered apprenticeship courses, certificates, and Associate of Applied Science degrees to students in Oregon. OCCAC currently manages three pathways in Construction Trades, Electrician, and Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology (three AAS degrees and nine certificates).
Community College Role in Registered Apprenticeship
Community colleges in Oregon currently partner with Registered apprenticeship programs by providing the “classroom” or Related Training and Instruction (RTI) component of apprenticeship, assisting Registered Apprenticeship programs with financial, administrative, and compliance management, and by serving as a key point of recruitment and information about registered apprenticeship opportunities.
Community colleges benefit from this partnership too. Affiliation with and knowledge of local registered apprenticeship programs give colleges a way to offer more to both their student and employer communities. Registered apprenticeship is a proven tool to boost enrollments and improve student outcomes such as certificate and degree completion, in-demand skill acquisition, employability, and future earnings.