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 […]

Like all programs, there is a cost associated with establishing a registered apprenticeship program.. While specific costs associated with registered apprenticeship programming is covered in a previous section of this toolkit, how a college and partners can address these costs requires additional detail. External funding, such as grants from public or private sources, is often […]

Effective data tracking and management are essential for the success of any community college registered apprenticeship program. Accurate and well-organized data provide valuable insights into program impacts, support compliance with U.S. Department of Labor, (DOL) policies, and help demonstrate the value of apprenticeships to stakeholders. Additionally, robust quality data collection enables colleges to make informed […]

Due to the structured nature of registered apprenticeship programs and the rigorous standards set by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), implementing effective management systems is essential for tracking required documentation and ensuring program success. AACC strongly recommends that colleges utilize centralized systems to monitor apprenticeships to maintain compliance and facilitate continued expansion in collaboration with industry partners. Effective […]

Registered apprenticeship programs have evolved significantly over the past decade. While primarily associated with the construction trades, registered apprenticeship programs have now expanded into high-growth industries such as electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, battery technology, charging infrastructure, and renewable energy. As demand for skilled workers in the EV sector continues to rise, there is significant opportunity […]

Determining the return on investment (ROI) for businesses investing in apprenticeships is a multifaceted process that varies by organization. Companies allocate significant resources to the education and training of their apprentices. However, AACC, has found strong evidence that businesses often begin realizing value early in the process. . This is largely because apprentices contribute to […]

Preparing students effectively for rewarding careers is the mission of community colleges, but is also the goal for policymakers, businesses, and other community stakeholders. AACC has found that apprenticeship programs address the skills gap because they immediately place workers in unfilled jobs, and the companies offering the apprenticeships can adjust their training to fit current […]

Since 2016, community colleges have played an increasingly pivotal role in the nationwide expansion of registered apprenticeships. These institutions have embraced the U.S. Department of Labor’s initiatives to grow apprenticeship programs across a wide range of occupations and industries. For this expansion to continue effectively, AACC encourages community college executives to craft a compelling case […]