EMPLOYERS

A registered apprenticeship cannot exist without an employer.  Employers play the most important role in an apprenticeship, as they work with partners to develop a customized Work Process and RTI suited to their needs, and employ and mentor apprentices throughout their program.

APPRENTICES

Apprentices participate in employer-driven apprenticeship programs to grow their skills and start or advance their career in their apprenticeship occupation. Apprentices may be existing employees within an organization, or they may be new hires selected specifically to participate in the company’s apprenticeship program.

MA DIVISION OF APPRENTICESHIP STANDARDS/US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

MA Division of Apprenticeship Standards (State Apprenticeship Agency) under the guidance of the US Department of Labor (DOL) is the organization that is responsible for reviewing, approving, and overseeing registered apprenticeship programs. The MA Division of Apprenticeship Standards works with employers and other organizations sponsoring apprenticeships to ensure that programs maintain high quality standards, program records, and provide benefits to apprentices.

INTERMEDIARIES

Third party organizations sometimes serve as apprenticeship sponsors in the role of an apprenticeship intermediary. Workforce Development Organizations are often involved as sponsors helping employers develop and launch apprenticeships. Workforce Development Organizations offer employers access to funding opportunities to support their programs and recruitment needs.

RELATED TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION (RTI) PROVIDERS

RTI providers deliver the required Related Technical Instruction (RTI) defined in apprenticeship programs. All types of training providers can serve as RTI providers, but RTI providers are often community colleges, employers themselves or unions that work with employers to develop a curriculum for their apprenticeship programs.