Career mobility refers to the ability of individuals to progress and advance within their chosen profession, trade, or industry by moving from one position or level to another.

Youth apprenticeship is a structured and comprehensive training program that enables young individuals, typically high school students or recent graduates, to combine academic learning with on-the-job training in a specific trade or occupation. Youth apprenticeships provide students with early exposure to the world of work, allowing them to gain practical skills, industry knowledge, and real-world experience while still pursuing their education.

The workforce refers to the total number of individuals who are actively engaged in employment, including both employees and employers, within a specific industry, organization, or geographic region.

These serve as dedicated resources and hubs of expertise within the Registered Apprenticeship system. These centers play a pivotal role in fostering the growth, quality, and inclusivity of Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) by offering a range of specialized services to key stakeholders.

Work processes are structured and organized methods that employees use to complete tasks, create value, and achieve specific goals within a company or industry. These processes outline the step-by-step procedures, methods, and workflows that individuals follow to carry out their responsibilities effectively.

Work-based learning provides individuals, such as apprentices, with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world tasks and challenges. Work-based learning fosters the development of job-specific skills, industry-specific competencies, and a deep understanding of work processes.

Apprenticeship programs that are conducted remotely or online, allowing participants to engage in training, learning, and skill development from a distance. In virtual apprenticeships, apprentices utilize digital tools, online platforms, and virtual learning environments to access educational materials, interact with mentors or instructors, and complete hands-on tasks or projects.

The scheduled increase in an apprentice's earnings over the course of their apprenticeship program as they acquire new skills, gain experience, and demonstrate proficiency in their chosen trade or occupation. As apprentices develop their capabilities and contribute more effectively to the workforce, their wages are incrementally adjusted to reflect their growing level of competence and value to the employer.

Upskilling is the process of acquiring new skills, knowledge, or competencies to enhance one's capabilities and qualifications in a specific field or industry. Upskilling initiatives may focus on developing technical, digital, or soft skills, and they contribute to the professional growth, career advancement, and overall adaptability of individuals within their chosen profession.

Time tracking refers to the logging and monitoring of the hours and periods that apprentices dedicate to various aspects of their apprenticeship program. This includes tracking the time spent on on-the-job training, classroom instruction, mentorship, and other related activities.

A union is an organized association of workers or employees who join together to collectively advocate for and protect their rights, interests, and working conditions. Unions negotiate with employers on behalf of their members to secure fair wages, benefits, working hours, and other terms of employment.

A transcript is an official document that provides a comprehensive record of an individual's educational achievements, including courses completed, grades earned, and other relevant information.

This is the strategic approach to nurturing, enhancing, and maximizing the skills, capabilities, and potential of individuals within an organization or industry.

The standards builder is a platform provided by the U.S. Department of Labor that facilitates the process of customizing and registering apprenticeship programs. It allows organizations to create and modify the performance standards, competencies, and guidelines that form the basis of their apprenticeship programs

These apprenticeships offer opportunities to learn about areas such as software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, network administration, and more.

Soft skills, also known as durable skills or occupational competencies, are non-technical abilities and personal attributes that enhance an individual's effectiveness in the workplace. Soft skills encompass traits such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, time management, and emotional intelligence.

Skills-based hiring is an approach to recruitment and selection that focuses on evaluating candidates based on their demonstrated skills, competencies, and abilities relevant to the job requirements, rather than solely relying on traditional factors like education, years of experience, or previous job titles.

These are structured and progressive routes that individuals follow to develop and advance their expertise within a particular industry or occupation. These paths are guided by the acquisition and mastery of specific skills, competencies, and proficiencies that are directly relevant to the chosen field.

A program in which a company provides financial support and other resources to a student or recent graduate in exchange for their work on a project or research.

Retention refers to the ability of apprentices to remain actively engaged and enrolled in an apprenticeship program from the start to the successful completion of the program. Effective retention strategies involve creating a positive and supportive learning environment, offering mentorship and guidance, addressing challenges promptly, and providing resources to help apprentices succeed.

Apprenticeship tracking refers to the systematic process of monitoring and recording the progress, performance, and milestones achieved by apprentices throughout their participation in an apprenticeship program. This involves the collection and analysis of data related to various aspects of the apprenticeship journey, including training hours, skills development, assessments, mentorship interactions, and program completion status.

Pre-apprenticeship refers to a preparatory training program designed to equip individuals with foundational skills, knowledge, and experiences that enhance their readiness for entry into a formal apprenticeship program. Pre-apprenticeship programs are often tailored to specific trades or industries and provide participants with an introduction to the basic technical skills, safety protocols, and industry-specific practices relevant to their chosen field.

Performance tracking involves the systematic collection, analysis, and evaluation of data and metrics related to the progress, outcomes, and effectiveness of apprenticeship programs. This tracking helps program administrators, employers, and stakeholders assess the success of apprenticeship initiatives, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to enhance program quality and impact.

Internal career options

The Office of Apprenticeship (OA) is a federal body responsible for overseeing, regulating, and supporting apprenticeship programs within a specific jurisdiction. The primary role of the Office of Apprenticeship is to ensure the quality, consistency, and effectiveness of apprenticeship initiatives by setting standards, providing guidance, and facilitating collaboration among apprentices, employers, educational institutions, and other stakeholders

National Apprenticeship Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness, promoting, and celebrating the benefits of apprenticeship programs across a country. During this designated week, various activities, events, workshops, and initiatives are organized to showcase the contributions of apprenticeships to workforce development, economic growth, and skills training.

Modern apprenticeships refer to contemporary and innovative apprenticeship programs that have been adapted to align with the evolving needs of industries, technological advancements, and changing workforce dynamics. Modern apprenticeships often integrate technology, digital tools, and online learning platforms to enhance the learning experience and provide flexible access to education and training.

IRAPs are apprenticeship initiatives that are designed, developed, and recognized by industry-specific organizations, employer groups, or associations. These adhere to the U.S. Department of Labor's established standards and are registered with the appropriate State Apprenticeship Agencies.

Job functions refer to the specific tasks, responsibilities, duties, and activities that are associated with a particular role or position within an organization or industry. Understanding job functions is essential for tailoring training and skill development to meet the practical requirements of a chosen trade or occupation.

Hard skills, often referred to as foundational competencies, are specific and quantifiable abilities, expertise, and technical proficiencies that are essential for performing tasks and duties within a particular trade, profession, or industry.

Equal employment opportunity (EEO) refers to the principle and practice of providing fair and unbiased treatment to all individuals, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.

An education provider is an institution, organization, or entity that offers formal educational programs, training, and instruction to individuals seeking to acquire knowledge, skills, and qualifications in a specific field or discipline. These providers can include vocational schools, community colleges, technical institutes, universities, and other training centers.

The process of evaluating apprentices throughout their program. Apprenticeship evaluation typically includes feedback from the apprentice's mentor, supervisor, and other stakeholders.

DEIA efforts focus on creating an apprenticeship ecosystem that welcomes individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, gender, socioeconomic, and ability backgrounds. This involves removing barriers to entry, addressing systemic inequalities, providing culturally responsive training, and ensuring that apprenticeship programs are accessible to everyone.

Credential transparency refers to the clarity, accessibility, and comprehensibility of information related to educational achievements, qualifications, certifications, and credentials earned by individuals.

An association refers to an organized group or professional body that plays a significant role in supporting, promoting, and advancing the interests of a specific industry, trade, or profession. Associations related to apprenticeships often collaborate with employers, educational institutions, government entities, and other stakeholders to develop and maintain high standards for training, skill development, and workforce excellence.

Case management, also known as Activity Tracking, is a feature within apprenticeship management systems that allows administrators, managers, sponsors, and HR personnel to maintain private and detailed records related to an apprentice's progress, interactions, and performance. This feature enables authorized users to document important events, conversations, assessments, and any other relevant information in a secure and confidential manner. Typically, the apprentice is not able to view these notes.

Career pathways outline the progression from entry-level positions to more advanced and specialized roles. Apprenticeship-based career pathways provide individuals with a clear roadmap for skill development, outlining the sequence of apprenticeship levels, on-the-job training, classroom instruction, certifications, and potential opportunities for advancement.

Career advancement encompasses the development of skills, knowledge, and experience that enable an apprentice to move from entry-level positions to more advanced roles with greater responsibilities and opportunities.

Braided funding involves coordinating funds from various stakeholders, such as government agencies, industry associations, employers, philanthropic organizations, and educational institutions. Braided funding promotes collaboration and maximizes the impact of available resources, ultimately contributing to the successful implementation and expansion of high-quality apprenticeship opportunities.

Intensive and focused training programs designed to rapidly develop specific skills and competencies required for a particular trade, industry, or occupation. These programs typically offer accelerated learning experiences that combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical training.

The systematic processes used to evaluate and measure an apprentice's knowledge, skills, and competencies in relation to the learning objectives and performance standards of the apprenticeship program. These evaluations are designed to gauge an apprentice's progress, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and ensure that they are meeting the requirements of their chosen trade or occupation.

Apprenticeship suspension refers to a temporary interruption or pause in an apprentice's participation in an apprenticeship program. This suspension can occur for various reasons, such as personal circumstances, health issues, changes in employment, or other unforeseen situations.

Apprenticeship management software is a specialized digital tool or platform designed to streamline and enhance the administration, coordination, tracking, and monitoring of apprenticeship programs.

An apprenticeship audit is a systematic and comprehensive review process conducted to assess the effectiveness, quality, and compliance of an apprenticeship program. The audit may be conducted by the DoL, a state organization, or a program stakeholder.

Apprenticeship dismissal refers to the termination or removal of an apprentice from an apprenticeship program before the completion of the designated training period. This decision may be made due to various reasons, including poor performance, violation of program rules or codes of conduct, inadequate attendance, or failure to meet program requirements.

The American Apprenticeship Initiative (AAI) is a strategic and comprehensive effort aimed at expanding and enhancing apprenticeship opportunities across various industries and sectors within the United States.

Apprenticeship completion refers to the successful fulfillment of all requirements and milestones outlined in an apprenticeship program, resulting in the attainment of recognized credentials and the transition to becoming a skilled and proficient worker in a specific trade or occupation.

A program that provides financial assistance to students in exchange for part-time employment on campus or in the community.

Apprenticeable occupations refer to specific job roles or professions that are well-suited for structured apprenticeship training programs.

Active-duty military personnel and veterans have unique opportunities to engage in apprenticeships, which provide structured pathways to develop valuable workplace skills and transition to civilian careers. Apprenticeships also leverage GI Bill benefits, offering housing allowances, stipends, and educational support. Veterans with disabilities may access custom programs through the Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program.

Adult training programs are structured educational initiatives designed to provide individuals who are further along in their careers with opportunities to enhance their skills, acquire new competencies, and pursue career advancement or transitions. These programs are specifically tailored to meet the needs of adults who may be seeking to upskill, reskill, or make a career switch.

A person who is responsible for helping students with their work-study programs.

Non-technical support resources meant to help apprentices succeed in their apprenticeship programs.

Short-term, structured work experience that is designed to help apprentices or other individuals with limited work history gain relevant skills and experience.

A person who chooses to give their time and energy to help others.

A group of occupations which require specialized skills and training typically acquired through apprenticeships or technical institutes.

Groups of skills and knowledge necessary for performing a job within a specific industry which can include technical skills, communication skills, problem solving skills, and safety training.

An apprenticeship program that has not been approved by a state or federal agency. Unregistered apprenticeships may not meet the same standards of quality as registered apprenticeships.

The skills people need in order to be able to complete the tasks that they are required to do on the job. Technical skills vary from job to job and typically require occupation- or industry-specific knowledge. They often combine theoretical and applied competencies.

A position in which a student assists a professor with their teaching. Teaching assistantships can provide students with the opportunity to gain experience in teaching and to learn about a particular field.

The requirements that must be met for an apprenticeship program to be considered registered. Apprenticeship standards typically include requirements for the training plan, the on-the-job training, and the exams that apprentices must pass.

Stakeholders are individuals, organizations, or other groups that have a vested interest in the success, development, and outcomes of apprenticeship programs. Stakeholders typically include apprentices themselves, employers, educational institutions, government agencies, industry associations, trade unions, and community representatives.

These are the organizations responsible for overseeing, managing, and assisting apprenticeship programs in their respective states.

A program in which a company provides financial support and other resources to a student or recent graduate in exchange for their work on a project or research.

A process in which a person observes another person at work for a period of time. Shadowing can provide an opportunity to learn about a particular job or field.

This is the training that takes place in the classroom which can consist of theoretical knowledge and projects in a controlled setting.

The process of selecting apprentices for a program. Apprenticeship selection criteria vary from program to program, but they typically include factors such as the applicant's education, experience, and skills.

An apprenticeship program that has been approved by a state or federal agency. Registered apprenticeships typically meet certain standards of quality, such as having a training plan, providing on-the-job training, and requiring apprentices to pass exams.

A position in which a student assists a professor or other researcher with their research. Research assistantships can provide students with the opportunity to gain experience in research and to learn about a particular field.

An acronym that stands for Registered Apprenticeship Partners Information Data System which is a web portal that is used to manage registered apprenticeships in the U.S.

A credential that is awarded to individuals who have met certain standards of competence in a particular field. Professional certifications can be obtained through a variety of organizations, such as professional associations and industry bodies.

Activities that help you improve your skills and knowledge in your field. Professional development can include taking courses, attending conferences, or reading industry publications.

The many different apprenticeship programs that are available in a variety of fields. Apprenticeship opportunities can be found through a variety of sources, such as online job boards, government websites, and trade associations.

A collection of your work that showcases your skills and accomplishments. Portfolios can be used to demonstrate your skills to potential employers or clients.

The training that takes place in the workplace, also known as hands-on training where the apprentice learns by doing.

The process of introducing apprentices to the program and to their new workplace. Apprenticeship orientation typically includes information about the program's goals, requirements, and procedures.

A specific trade (job) that requires specialized skills and training.

The process of building relationships with people who can help you advance your career. Networking can be done through formal events, such as conferences and meetups, or through informal interactions, such as meeting people at work or through social media.

A relationship between a more experienced and knowledgeable person (the mentor) and a less experienced person (the mentee). Mentors can provide mentees with guidance, support, and advice.

A more experienced and knowledgeable person who provides guidance, support, and advice to a less experienced person.

A less experienced person who receives guidance, support, and advice from a mentor.

A highly skilled worker who has achieved the highest level of mastery in their field.

An LMS is a software that helps organizations create, manage, and administer training content and assessments.

A program that is designed to help students develop their leadership skills. Leadership development programs can include workshops, training, and mentoring.

The core attributes that an apprentice must have in order to be competent in the occupation they will be working in.

A skilled worker who has completed an apprenticeship program and is qualified to work independently.

An organization that helps employers and apprentices connect with each other and develop apprenticeship programs. They can provide recruiting, training, and support.

A record of the apprentice's training and experience. The apprenticeship journal is used to track the apprentice's progress and to document their learning.

The process of interviewing for an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeship interviews typically involve questions about the applicant's education, experience, and skills.

A person who is responsible for recruiting, selecting, and placing interns.

A temporary position that provides students or recent graduates with the opportunity to gain work experience in a particular field. Internships typically last for a few months and do not lead to a credential.

The process of celebrating the successful completion of an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeship graduation typically includes a ceremony and a presentation of awards.

The essential literacy and numeracy skills that apprentices need to succeed in their chosen field (reading, writing, comprehension, computer skills, among others).

A program that provides financial support and other resources to a student or recent graduate in exchange for their work on a research project or for their service to a community organization.

A temporary position that provides students or recent graduates with the opportunity to gain work experience in a particular field. Externships are similar to internships, but they are typically unpaid.

The process of evaluating apprentices throughout their program. Apprenticeship evaluation typically includes feedback from the apprentice's mentor, supervisor, and other stakeholders.

An employer is a company or organization that hires apprentices.