Virginia Department of Labor and Industry

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Frequently Asked Questions: Apprenticeship Training

1. What is Registered apprenticeship?
   Registered apprenticeship is a proven, cost-effective system for training employees in a variety of occupations that require a wide range of skills and knowledge; it is an ideal way for employers to build and maintain a skilled workforce. Registered apprenticeship combines supervised on-the-job training with technical classroom studies in subjects related to the apprentice's chosen occupation.
2. When did Registered Apprenticeship begin in Virginia?
   In 1937, the United States Congress enacted the National Apprenticeship Law. The Apprenticeship Program was adopted by the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1938, and has been administered by the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry since its inception.
3. Who are the players in the Virginia Registered Apprenticeship?
   Members of the Virginia Apprenticeship Council (VAC) are appointed by the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia; the Council has regulatory authority over the Program. The Virginia Department of Labor & Industry (DOLI) administers the program through seven regional offices and one program office located in Richmond.
4. What is an apprenticeable occupation?
   An apprenticeable occupation is generally a skilled trade, learned through structured and supervised on-the-job work experience. The occupation is clearly identifiable and recognized through an industry and most often involves manual, mechanical, or technical skills. Each occupation requires a minimum of 2000 hours of on-the-job work experience and a recommended minimum of 144 related instruction hours each apprenticeable year to supplement the on-the-job work experience. There are approximately 300 approved and active occupations in the Commonwealth of Virginia and over 800 throughout the United States.
5. What are some of the commonly used terms in Apprenticeship?
   Sponsor - an individual employer, a group of employees, or an association or organization operating a registered apprenticeship program(s). Each program is administered by the sponsor and registered in the sponsor's name.

   Apprentice - an individual at least 16 years of age who is covered by a written employer agreement that is approved by the Virginia Apprenticeship Council.

   Supervisor of Apprentices - the person designated by the sponsor to maintain records of the apprentices and to work with apprentices. The apprentices must be given assurance of qualified training personnel and adequate supervision on the job. The supervisor arranges for related instruction.

   On-the-job Training - organized training provided on the job site and supervised by at least one journeyman. A minimum of 2,000 on-the-job hours is required for each apprentice.

   Related Instruction - organized related and supplemental instruction in technical subjects related to the trade. Such instruction may be given through trade industrial classes, correspondence courses of equivalent value, or other forms of self-study. A minimum of 144 hours of related instruction is recommended for each year of apprenticeship.

   Registration - an organized written process sponsored by an employer that contains all terms and conditions to carry out the program. The Minimum Standards for Apprenticeship must be signed by all sponsors.

   Work Processes - A list of job duties that the apprentice will receive and the approximate time allocated for each job duty. Sample work processes may be found at the National Skills Standards Board (NSSB).

6. How does an employer become a registered sponsor?
   Contact your local Apprenticeship Representative.
7. When an apprentice completes his or her apprenticeship what do they receive?
   Each apprentice who completes the Virginia Apprenticeship Program will receive a completion certificate and a journeyman's card presented by the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry. These documents are recognized throughout the United States.
8. What are the benefits of apprenticeship?
   • Apprenticeship is known for attracting high quality applicants who are motivated to succeed.
   • Training standards are tailored to the sponsor's individual needs.
   • Enhances employee relations by developing collaborative commitment to achievement.
   • Enhances problem solving capabilities and versatility of the workforce.
   • Increases the competitive edge.
   • Reduces turnover.
   • Reduces Worker's Compensation.
   • Increases skill level.
   • Employees produce quality products.
   • Creates a pool of skilled employees.
   • Increases productivity by cultivating a highly skilled and knowledgeable workforce.
   • Promotes teamwork.
   • Improved on safety.
   • Strengthens bond between management, supervisors, and employees.
9. Who can become an apprentice?
   To become an apprentice, there must be a sponsoring organization (registered sponsor). An apprentice can be as young as 16 years of age and there is no upper age limit.
10. What are the apprentice's responsibilities?
    Each apprentice registered under the Minimum Standards of Apprenticeship agrees to be regular in attendance both on-the-job and in the classroom, punctual, proper in conduct, and endeavoring with the utmost ability to attain perfection in practice of the chosen craft or trade.

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