Why Registered Apprenticeship
Registered apprenticeship is a high-quality, industry-driven workforce training strategy that combines on-the-job training and classroom instruction to develop highly skilled employees in a particular occupation. What apprentices learn on the job is supplemented by classroom training, providing the theory as to why and how they do things on the job.
In partnership with IALR, the Danville Life Saving Crew – the primary Emergency Medical Services provider for the City of Danville – signed 13 individuals as Virginia’s first Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) registered apprentices during an October ceremony.
The apprentices are paid during their training period and receive compensation increases as they attain certain skills and training milestones. Once the worker completes the required on-the-job training and classroom components (related technical instruction), they obtain a portable nationally recognized credential that demonstrates journeyworker-level proficiency. This credential, combined with their practical experience, equips them to train future apprentices, fostering a continuous flow of skilled talent for businesses. The paid on-the-job training element reduces entry barriers for employees and expands the available talent pool for businesses.
- Registered apprenticeship terms vary by occupation and are set by the state apprenticeship agency. They are customizable to meet an employer’s individual training needs.
- At a minimum, apprenticeship programs require 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of classroom training, which can be completed in about a year; others require as much as 10,000 hours of on-the-job training.
- Employers can customize the related technical instruction for their needs and choose the instruction provider or teach it themselves.
