Austin Community College Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Program (IRAP): An Austin Community College (ACC) Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Program (IRAP) is a high-quality, industry-driven career pathway that enables employers to develop their future workforce and provides individuals with valuable training and career advancement opportunities.

Key Features:

  • Employer-Driven: Designed in partnership with industry to meet current workforce needs.
  • Paid Work Experience: Apprentices receive on-the-job training under the guidance of a qualified mentor.
  • Progressive Advancement:
      • Opportunities for promotion, potential wage increase, or full-time employment upon completion.
  • Integrated Instruction: Includes classroom instruction delivered through ACC.
  • Credential Attainment: Apprentices earn an academic or Continuing Education credential from Austin Community College.
  • Flexible & Validated:
      • Programs are flexible in contractual terms to meet employer needs.
      • Officially recognized and validated by ACC.
  • Industry-Vetted: Each apprenticeship is reviewed and approved to align with industry standards.

Required Documentation:

  • Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
  • Appendix A: Program outline and expectations
  • Appendix D: Wage schedule and progression plan
  • Apprentice Tracking Documents: Tools for monitoring progress and outcomes

Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP): A Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway that allows employers to build a skilled workforce and provides individuals with paid, hands-on training and educational instruction leading to nationally recognized credentials. 

Key Features:

  • Employer-Led: Programs are developed in collaboration with industry to meet real workforce needs.
  • Paid On-the-Job Training: Apprentices earn a wage while learning under the guidance of an experienced mentor.
  • Wage Progression: Structured increases in wages as skills and competencies are gained.
  • Classroom Instruction: Related technical instruction is delivered in partnership with approved education providers.
  • National Credential: Graduates receive a portable, nationally recognized credential issued by the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL).
  • Industry-Vetted & Validated: All programs are approved and registered with the USDOL, ensuring they meet rigorous national standards.
  • Publicly Funded: Supported through funding from the Texas Workforce Commission via the Texas Expansion Grant.

Required Documentation:

  • Boilerplate Standards (USDOL-approved program framework)
  • Appendix A: Work process schedule
  • Appendix B: Related instruction outline
  • Appendix C: Affirmative Action Plan
  • Appendix D: Wage schedule
  • Form 671: Apprentice Registration and Agreement Form
  • Memorandum of Understanding (MOU): Agreement between participating partners

Apprenticeship Glossary Link

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re an employer or department chair, please contact:

Andrea DeLeon (she/her/hers)
Apprenticeship Coordinator
Office of Experiential Learning
Highland Business Center, Room 215
[email protected]
(512) 223-1486

If you’re an Austin Community College (ACC) student interested in apprenticeships, please contact the department chair or department coordinator of your program