Designed to address common inquiries from both prospective apprentices and employer
partners these FAQ's serve as a first stop for anyone interested in apprenticeship.
A person working full or part-time with a registered apprenticeship employer while
taking courses that are relevant to their occupation and industry. Apprentices work
with a mentor on the job who evaluates their skills and knowledge.
Apprenticeship is a paid position that includes a formal, structured training plan
for a specific occupation. These programs are designed to prepare an individual for
a career in their chosen field. An internship is a short-term introductory experience
to learn about the industry or company.
Apprenticeship is “Earn and Learn” model, where apprentices get a leg up on employment
while earning industry credentials and a paycheck all at the same time.
Anyone can be an apprentice if they are 16 years of age and legally authorized to
work. Other eligibility requirements may be established by the program sponsor.
No. Each apprenticeship program is designed to meet the needs of that specific occupation.
Therefore programs will vary in length, entry requirements, schedules, etc.
The length of an apprenticeship program depends on the occupation. The minimum length
of a program is 1 year. Most apprenticeships are between 1 to 3 years; certain occupations
can go to 5 years.
Employers will provide a mentor (someone proficient in the apprenticed occupation)
to supervise and evaluate the apprentice’s progress throughout the program.
The sponsor or employer of the apprenticeship program may grant credit for previous
work or classroom experience. The amount of credit awarded is based on a review of
the apprentice’s previous work and training/education record and evaluation of the
apprentice’s skills.
Yes. Some apprenticeship programs allow apprentices to earn college credits while
in training. Contact the Office of Apprenticeships to learn more.
Yes. Any service member can pursue a skill unrelated to their military training and
experience. GI Bill payments can be used towards apprenticeship. Veterans can request
advanced standing or credit hours for military training, this will be determined on
a case by case basis with the employer.
For Employers
Employers play a critical role Registered Apprenticeship. They drive the design of
the program; outlining the training, delivering or providing access to the related
instruction and paying the apprentice’s wages. The employer and the apprentice sign
an agreement which details the specifics of the program: how long, rates of pay, skills
the apprentice will learn and the education they will receive. The employer commits
to providing the training and employing the apprentice; the apprentice pledges to
perform the work and complete the required education.
The job has skills that are traditionally learned in a structed, systematic way with
on-the-job supervision.
The occupation is commonly recognized throughout an industry.
Involves progressive attainment of skills and knowledge, which require the minimum
completion of 2000 hours (1 year) of on-the-job learning.
Requires related instruction in addition to on-the-job learning.
There are many benefits for employers, below are just a few:
Customized training tailored to your business needs
Increased employee retention
Fix skill shortages
Increased productivity
Lower recruitment costs
No. Apprenticeships operate in union and non-union workplaces.
Apprentices earn a paycheck from day one. Employers set the apprentice wage based
on industry standards; building incremental wage increases that coincide with employee
skill attainment and performance.
Yes. Registered Apprenticeships are officially certified by a state-level State Apprenticeship
Agency (SAA) approved by the DOL. These programs meet federal quality, safety, and
wage standards; they are registered though Rhode Island’s state agency within the
Department of Labor and Training.
Yes. There are state and federal resources for apprenticeship. Contact the Office
of Apprenticeships to learn more.
Reach Out!
Contact the Office of Apprenticeships
Whether you're a prospective student eager to launch your career or an employer looking
to cultivate skilled talent, the Office of Apprenticeships at CCRI is your resource
to earn while you learn.