Coming soon… Registered Apprenticeship Programs for green industry

What is a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)?

Registered Apprenticeship is structured employment with on-the-job training that is paired with off-the-job related technical instruction. It is an employer-driven career pathway, often administered by an industry intermediary (in this case, the Kentucky Horticulture Council), with technical support from the Kentucky Career Center’s State Office of Employer and Apprenticeship Services, and a certificate of completion issued by the Department of Labor.

What are the benefits of a Registered Apprenticeship Program for employers?

Employees who complete a RAP are significantly more likely to stay with their employer, and the credential associated with a RAP can attract highly interested, trainable talent. Often, the first RAP participants are existing employees eager to skill-upgrade. Apprentices who complete their program earn a Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship, a nationally recognized credential proving mastery of their skills.

Who does the training? How is this different than how I usually train my workers?

The employer is responsible for pairing the apprentice with a mentor who will oversee the apprentice’s completion of on-the-job training hours in different job skills. The job skills, called “competencies,” reflect normal workplace operations and ensure the employee is given sufficient time and guidance to master the skills. The on-the-job skills are paired with related technical instruction, often provided through a mix of in-house training, training available at local institutions and community colleges, online classes, and through completing industry certifications.