As with any new community college initiative of large magnitude and complexity, building in a feedback model to assess and evaluate progress throughout the development, implementation, and maintenance of a registered apprenticeship program is crucial. Establishing a registered apprenticeship program requires a comprehensive evaluation process to ensure its effectiveness, sustainability, and impact. A well-structured assessment model enables colleges to track progress, measure outcomes, and identify areas for improvement throughout the development, implementation, and maintenance of the program.
Much like the initial design and development of an apprenticeship program, many of the same tools and resources used to launch the program can also support ongoing assessment and evaluation. This continuous review process enhances program efficiency, effectiveness, and alignment with workforce needs while ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements.
The Importance of Ongoing Program Assessment
Evaluating a registered apprenticeship program should not be a one-time effort. A structured, ongoing approach helps identify strengths and areas for improvement, ensure the program remains aligned with industry needs, maintain compliance with DOL and state apprenticeship standards, strengthen employer partnerships and stakeholder engagement, and optimize resource allocation for long-term sustainability.
If your college already incorporates continuous quality improvement (CQI) or process improvement models, these frameworks can serve as a foundation for assessing apprenticeship program performance.
Key Data for Program Assessment and Evaluation
A comprehensive evaluation of registered apprenticeship programming at your college should both quantitative and qualitative data to assess program effectiveness.
Quantitative Data Metrics
- Labor market data
- Participating employer data
- Participating apprentice employee and student data
- Program revenue and income
- Ongoing return on investment (ROI) and cost/benefit analysis
- Program data tracking and performance outcomes
Qualitative Data Metrics
- Assessment of program readiness and program inventory assessment
- Employer and community stakeholder communication and feedback
- Advisory Committee feedback (if applicable)
- Student/Registered apprentice feedback
- Faculty, Staff, and internal institutional feedback
- Office of Apprenticeship or State Apprenticeship Office feedback and compliance
Timing and Implementation of Program Evaluations
To maintain accountability and transparency, program assessments should occur at regular intervals, such as at the end of each semester to allow for timely adjustments and course corrections, annually to provide a comprehensive review of program performance and impact, and during major program changes to evaluate effectiveness when expanding into new industries or scaling apprenticeship offerings.
Ongoing evaluations not only enhance program effectiveness but also demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement for employer and community partners, apprentices and faculty, and state and federal apprenticeship offices.
Other Resources
- Evaluation Toolkit: Key Elements for State Workforce Agencies.opens PDF file U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration Office of Policy Development and Research Division of Research and Evaluation