Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) provide social
and economic benefits to people of all backgrounds and previous economic or
educational experiences. These advantages include minimal standardized testing
requirements, paid training participation, progressive wage increases, and entry
into growing sectors of the economy such as clean energy infrastructure
development. Apprenticeships have the dual benefit of creating a pipeline of
talent for employers and expanding economic opportunities for those without a
traditional college degree or previous employment experience. In combination,
apprenticeships have uplifting economic and social impacts in local communities.
However, apprenticeships remain underutilized by
employers and those entering the workforce alike. On the apprentice side,
people may be unaware of what 21st Century apprenticeships look and
feel like; on the employer side, creating an apprenticeship program may be perceived
as too challenging or demanding. Addressing both sides of this challenge will
help spread apprenticeships and their benefits across the country.
Gaining a fuller understanding of apprenticeships, their
benefits, and the resources available at all levels of government and from
non-governmental organizations to support apprenticeship creation and expansion
can benefit all parties in the apprenticeship world.