Apprenticeship for Career Seekers

Registered Apprenticeship is a training model that combines on-the-job learning and classroom training, which is referred to as “related instruction”.  

As an apprentice you are employed from day one and learning your new career pathway by actually doing it.  This is referred to as “On-the-Job Learning” (OJL).  You will also take classes during your apprenticeship with the related instruction.  

Every apprentice has an assigned mentor.  The mentor is a seasoned journeyworker who helps with the On-the-job learning as you advance through the apprenticeship.

Hiring for Registered Apprenticeship Programs is led by the Employer and the Sponsor, like any other job. The application process and hiring schedule will vary depending on the program. There are some programs that hire in groups and others that hire on an as-needed basis. 

The best place to start is by searching the Colorado Registered Apprenticeship Program Directory and following the application steps in the How to Apply, Minimum Qualifications, and Selection Criteria fields. The “Hiring This Year” Filter will display a list of programs that have indicated they are taking on new apprentices this calendar year. Please keep in mind that just because a program is listed on the Directory does not mean that the program is currently hiring. You can also contact the Sponsor for more information. 

These other resources may also be helpful in finding registered apprenticeship job opportunities: 

• Connecting Colorado - Statewide job board offered by Colorado's local workforce system. Connecting Colorado posts various job opportunities, including RAP opportunities.

• Apprenticeship Job Finder - National tool on Apprenticeship.gov that lists apprenticeship opportunities. Career seekers are encouraged to verify the apprenticeship opportunity is registered on the Colorado Apprenticeship Directory.

An apprenticeship is a type of employment, so as a career seeker you approach searching for apprenticeships as you would other types of jobs. Much of this information is provided within the Colorado Apprenticeship Resource Directory, on the program’s website.

Requirements and selection procedures vary by program, but job seekers can prepare for the search by:

• Researching programs to check for programs that are currently recruiting
• Checking with the program what their selection process is (online application, resume, hiring fair, placement test, etc.)
• Ensuring that you meet any prerequisites of the program (e.g. drivers license, GED)
• Collecting evidence of prior learning or experience, if applicable (e.g. high school diploma, military experience)
• Attending any required information sessions or assessments

Yes, a Registered Apprenticeship is a paid job. As an apprentice, you will be employed from the beginning and earn a paycheck as a paid employee.  Registered Apprenticeship is different from other forms of work-based learning such as internships. You can learn more about other forms of work-based learning by reading the Work Based Learning Continuum or contacting your local workforce center.

Apprenticeship Colorado partners with Qualified Talent Intermediaries to provide 1:1 support to career seekers interested in apprenticeship. Check out this list of organizations that can help you. The list includes their contact information, how they can help you, and if there are any specific costs or eligibility requirements. 

Registered apprenticeships are high-quality work-based learning and earn-and-learn models that meet national standards for registration with Apprenticeship Colorado. 

Apprenticeship Colorado approves and monitors programs to ensure programs meet the following quality standards:

• Earn wages, with at least one guaranteed increase  
• Provide workplace experience and job-related instruction
• Provide an experienced worker/mentor in the workplace
• Meet national quality standards for registration Apprenticeship Colorado
• Results in a nationally recognized credential
• Guarantee special protections under Equal Employment Opportunity in Apprenticeship

While all registered apprenticeships meet the same quality standards above, some may offer additional benefits, including:

• Additional industry certificates or credentials
• Post-secondary credit or certificates
• Tuition reimbursement 

Registered Apprenticeship is used in a wide range of industries and leads to many different career paths.  Some of these industries include Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, Cybersecurity/IT, Education, Financial Services, Government, Healthcare, Hospitality, Skilled Trades, and more.  

The Colorado Registered Apprenticeship Directory includes an industry filter that you can use to get a better idea of some of the opportunities out there. 
 

Workforce centers can help you find an apprenticeship and identify potential resources to support your success. Financial aid may be available for qualifying apprentices for childcare, transportation, books, tuition, or other costs. Partner organizations can also be an invaluable resource for coaching, supplies, and financial aid.  

• For Veterans

  • Check to see if a program is registered for GI Bill® Benefits: If your program is not registered for these benefits, you can request your program register after you are hired.

• For College Apprentices

  • Connect with your college’s apprenticeship staff to determine if you qualify for support for the related instruction component of college-affiliated apprenticeships. 

• For Individuals with Disabilities

  • Access resources and coaching through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation

• For Individuals with Financial Need

  • Search for programs that already qualify for workforce training funds

  • Learn about resources available through the Colorado Department of Human Services

Every Registered Apprenticeship Program has a component called the “Related Instruction”. This is the classroom learning portion of the Registered Apprenticeship Program.  This could be in-person, online, or a combination of the two.  The Related Instruction could be provided by the employer, a community college, or another training provider.  

On the Colorado Registered Apprenticeship Directory, there is a section that includes information on the certificates, licenses, college credits, and other credentials that are offered by the program.  

Every Registered Apprenticeship Program results in a nationally recognized credential in the form of the certificate of completion issued at the end of the Registered Apprenticeship Program.

There are no residency requirements for Registered Apprenticeship.  Whether a program accepts out-of-state applicants will be determined by the Employer and Sponsor.  Apprenticeship Colorado is unable to provide direct assistance to prospective apprentices that are not currently residing in the state.

• Contact your registered apprenticeship program Sponsor if you need a copy of your Colorado Apprenticeship Agreement or ETA 671.
• Email apprenticeship@state.co.us or call (720) 204-8608 if you need a copy of any of your apprentice records. 
• Contact the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) if you need to access records for apprenticeships in state-licensed occupations.
• Contact your college if you need to access transcripts related to apprentice instruction earned at a college.
   

Yes, anyone that may legally work in the US is eligible to participate in apprenticeship programs. 

New Americans are defined by law as a Coloradan who has arrived, and a person who will arrive, to Colorado as an immigrant or refugee, and includes their children. This population includes: refugees, asylees, Special Immigrant Visa holders, victims of trafficking, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) recipients, and all other immigrants and aspiring citizens seeking opportunity, safety, and/or reunification of family.