
What is an Apprenticeship?
What is an Apprenticeship?
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:
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- Opportunities for promotion, potential wage increase, or full-time employment upon completion.
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- Integrated Instruction: Includes classroom instruction delivered through ACC.
- Credential Attainment: Apprentices earn an academic or Continuing Education credential from Austin Community College.
- Flexible & Validated:
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- Programs are flexible in contractual terms to meet employer needs.
- Officially recognized and validated by ACC.
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- 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
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