[Federal Register: January 15, 2009 (Volume 74, Number 10)]
[Notices]
[Page 2620-2632]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr15ja09-135]
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DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Employment and Training Administration
Advancing Registered Apprenticeship into the 21st Century:
Collaborating For Success; Solicitation for Grant Applications
Announcement Type: New Notice of solicitation for grant
applications.
Funding Opportunity Number: SGA/DFA PY 08-11.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance CFDA Number: 17.201.
[[Page 2621]]
Key Dates: The closing date for receipt of application under this
announcement is 60 days from the date of publication in the Federal
Register.
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training
Administration (ETA), announces the availability of approximately $6.5
million for 10-20 grants to promote the adoption of the 21st century
Registered Apprenticeship framework established by the Final Rule
published on October 29, 2008 (73 FR 64402), promulgating revised 20
CFR Part 29, Labor Standards for the Registration of Apprenticeship
Programs. The grants will fund the development and/or adaptation of
national guideline standards that incorporate competency-based
progression; hybrid-style progression; and/or interim credentials.
Funds are also available to train staff, apprenticeship instructors and
members on the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework and on
the development of standards that utilize the elements of the 21st
century Registered Apprenticeship framework as established by the Final
Rule. National industry and employer associations, labor-management
organizations and other organizations that demonstrate the capacity to
advance registered apprenticeship through the development of new or
modified apprenticeship standards using the elements of the 21st
century Registered Apprenticeship framework are eligible to apply for
grant funds.
To be considered for an award, grant applications must incorporate
at least four of the following seven components:
1. Continued expansion into fast growing and/or new and emerging
industries (including construction).
2. Development of new or modified programs or guideline standards
that utilize competency-based (see Part VIII--Section 2--Key
Definitions) or hybrid training models (see Part VIII--Section 2--Key
Definitions).
3. Use of interim credentialing to acknowledge the skills an
apprentice attains during training.
4. Adoption of Technology-Based Learning strategies for related
instruction.
5. Strategic partnerships with the Office of Apprenticeship (OA),
State Apprenticeship Agencies (SAA), and the public workforce
investment system.
6. Innovative strategies to serve under-represented populations,
particularly youth and women, to meet the talent development needs of
regional economies through Registered Apprenticeship.
7. Innovative Partnerships with Education (Secondary and Post-
Secondary) and other key stakeholders.
Allowable activities may include developing new or modifying
existing standards for apprenticeship programs (including national
guideline standards), developing curricula to support these standards;
using technology-based learning strategies; developing skill assessment
tools for competency-based models; training and education to take
advantage of the opportunities outlined in the new regulatory
requirements; and conducting outreach and training efforts to educate
members, affiliates, staff and partners on the new model.
All applicants must develop or modify at least one national
guideline standard with at least four programs and train a minimum of
100 apprentices in the new model. Additionally, all applicants must
demonstrate that they have the ability and expertise to develop the new
framework and the capacity to provide training to their membership.
This expertise and capacity can be demonstrated by the individual
applicant or through partnership with other organizations.
ETA recognizes that the use of these approaches will offer
apprentices greater opportunities to increase their knowledge and
attain the skills that emerging and high growth industries demand.
Additionally, the use of interim credentialing and competency-based
models will ensure that apprentices receive recognition for the skills
and competencies they have attained during and prior to completion of a
traditional time-based program. ETA believes that expanding the use of
these Apprenticeship models will increase the ability of apprenticeship
programs to meet the needs of industries that require more flexibility
in training a worker for the required level of proficiency and
expertise.
ADDRESSES: To apply by mail, please submit one (1) blue-ink signed,
typewritten original of the application and two (2) signed photocopies
in one package to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training
Administration, Division of Federal Assistance, Attention: Mamie
Williams, Reference SGA/DFA PY 08-11, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW.,
Room N-4716, Washington, DC 20210. Information about applying online
through http://www.grants.gov can be found in Section IV.B(3) of this
document. Applicants are advised that mail delivery in the Washington
area may be delayed due to mail decontamination procedures. Hand
delivered proposals will be received at the above address.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Registered Apprenticeship system is
administered by the Employment and Training Administration's (ETA)
Office of Apprenticeship (OA) in partnership with State Apprenticeship
Agencies (SAA), and is an important strategy to prepare workers for
successful careers. It is a significant postsecondary education,
training and employment option available nationwide, driven by the
needs of businesses and industries. Registered Apprenticeship trains
workers for high-skilled, high-wage careers, with an employer
satisfaction rate of 85 percent. Registered Apprenticeship has more
than 29,000 programs, 250,000 employers and 468,000 apprentices--
predominantly in high-growth industries. Industries, employer
associations, and labor-management organizations, which sponsor most of
the Registered Apprenticeship programs, are particularly well situated
to help OA implement the Final Rule and advance Registered
Apprenticeship into the 21st century.
The intent of this solicitation is to promote the 21st century
Registered Apprenticeship framework as outlined in the new regulations
within existing national organizations, their affiliates and members
which have Registered Apprenticeship programs. The primary focus is
making funds available to develop new or adapt existing national
guideline standards to include competency-based models, hybrid models
(combination of time and competency-based models) and/or interim
credentials. Funds are also available to train staff, apprenticeship
instructors and members on this new framework and on the new standards
that will be developed.
This solicitation provides background information on the Advancing
Apprenticeship Initiative and critical elements required of projects
funded under the solicitation. It also describes the application
submission requirements, the process that eligible applicants must use
to apply for funds covered by this solicitation, and how grantees will
be selected. This announcement consists of seven parts:
Part I provides background information on Registered
Apprenticeship.
Part II describes the size and nature of the anticipated
awards.
Part III describes the qualifications of an eligible
applicant.
Part IV provides information on the application and
submission process.
[[Page 2622]]
Part V explains the review process and rating criteria
that will be used to evaluate applications.
Part VI provides award administration information.
Part VII contains ETA contact information.
Part VIII contains `Veterans Priority' information and key
definitions that may be referenced within this notice.
Part I. Funding Opportunity Description
Background
Registered Apprenticeship programs offer employment and a
combination of on-the-job learning and related technical and
theoretical instruction. Apprentices are employed at the start of their
apprenticeship and work through a series of defined curricula until the
completion of their apprenticeship programs. The duration of training,
and the skills and competencies required for mastery, are driven by the
needs of businesses and industries. Traditional apprenticeship programs
require a specific number of hours of on-the-job learning. While this
model is successful and preferred in certain industries, increasingly,
new and high-growth industries are establishing competency-based and
hybrid (competency and time-based) apprenticeship strategies that focus
on the mastery of key skills and allow motivated workers to progress at
their own pace. Currently, the Registered Apprenticeship system
approves time-based, competency-based, and a hybrid of time- and
competency-based programs, and provides technical assistance to help
industries develop interim credentials.
Interim credentials earned through Registered Apprenticeship
programs, and issued by the Department's Office of Apprenticeship as
certificates of training, are increasingly recognized nationwide as
portable industry credentials. The primary and ultimate apprentice
certification is a Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship, which
is awarded at the end of the apprenticeship. Many apprenticeship
programs--particularly in high-growth industries such as health care,
advanced manufacturing and transportation--now also offer interim
credentials and training certificates based on a competency model that
leads to a Certificate of Completion. There may be beginning,
intermediate, advanced, and specialty certification levels. Registered
Apprenticeship programs are flexible to also allow credit for previous
apprenticeship-related experience. In addition, interim credentials are
recognized by the publicly-funded workforce investment system.
Increased flexibility and additional options will help advance
Registered Apprenticeship in all industries that require employees to
adapt quickly to changing skill needs and technology advances driven by
demand and competition in a 21st century global economy. These
additional options will further enable Registered Apprenticeship to
meet the needs of sponsors and apprentices and facilitate partnerships
with and the leveraging of workforce and education system resources.
In order to ensure that Registered Apprenticeship is integrated
into service delivery strategies for businesses and the workforce, it
is critical to support collaboration between the Registered
Apprenticeship infrastructure, national industry and/or employer
associations, labor management organizations, and other organizations
that demonstrate the capacity to advance registered apprenticeship
through the development of new or modified apprenticeship standards
using the elements of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship
framework. These stakeholders are uniquely positioned to integrate
Registered Apprenticeship into business engagement strategies by
encouraging the development of new apprenticeship programs. National
industry and/or employer associations, national labor-management and/or
other national organizations can leverage the unique capacity of OA and
SAA apprenticeship staff to provide technical assistance for
prospective or existing programs. These national groups can also
enhance strategic regional development by integrating innovative
approaches to registered apprenticeship into their talent development
with their local affiliates.
Part II. Award Information
1. Award Amount
ETA anticipates awarding between 10 to 20 grants with funding
identified for each of three major ETA activities outlined below.
Funding will be awarded to help National industry and employer
associations, labor-management organizations and other apprenticeship
partners and stakeholders carry out one or more of the following
project activities/components:
A. Implementation:
To develop and/or modify new or existing Registered Apprenticeship
standards that utilize the elements of the proposed new Registered
Apprenticeship framework and implement the new model in at least four
sites with a minimum total of 100 apprentices. Up to $500,000 in
funding will be awarded to each grantee under this component. The
amount of funding requested should be appropriate to conduct the
activities needed to reach the project goals under this component.
B. Training & Outreach:
Train members and staff on the elements of the proposed new
Registered Apprenticeship framework. Training should be focused on
preparing members and staff to implement apprenticeship models that
utilize a minimum of four of the seven components described in the
introductory summary of this grant solicitation. Up to $150,000 in
funding will be awarded to each grantee under this component. The
amount of funding requested should be appropriate to conduct the
activities needed to reach the project goals under this component.
C. Training, Outreach, and Implementation:
This option is a combination of A and B. Up to $650,000 in funding
will be awarded to each grantee (up to $500,000 for implementation and
up to $150,000 for training and outreach). The amount of funding
requested should be appropriate to conduct the activities needed to
reach the project goals under this component.
Applicants must provide a detailed explanation of the activities
they propose to conduct under each funding component for which they
apply, and detail the funding amount requested for each component.
Applications will be scored solely on the criteria for the category (A,
B, or C) chosen. For example; an application that seeks funding to
accomplish the goals identified under the Implementation component will
be evaluated based on the Implementation criteria only, while an
application submitted under Option C will be evaluated under a set of
combined criteria (see Part V of this notice for more details).
Proposals will be grouped by the category for which they apply, and the
proposals within each category will be rated separately. Applying for
only one component of funding will not affect scoring of applications
and will not reduce an applicant's ability to be funded. No category
has preference over one of the others.
ETA reserves the right to fund grants at either a lower or higher
amount, or fund a smaller or larger number of projects based on the
type and the number of quality submissions.
[[Page 2623]]
2. Use of Funds
Grants awarded under this solicitation are to be used to develop
partnerships of public and private entities to promote the 21st Century
Registered Apprenticeship framework. Partnerships should include
representatives of business or business-related non-profit
organizations, education and training providers, which may include
community colleges or other community-based organizations, and the
public workforce system. Eligible entities have the opportunity to
collaborate with OA and SAA staff to advance their Registered
Apprenticeship standards and programs. In addition, eligible entities
can collaborate with other partners to:
(1) Write new or modify existing standards that utilize competency-
based and/or hybrid (competency/time-based) models, and/or interim
credentials, technology-based learning, or other elements of a 21st
century Registered Apprenticeship framework; and
(2) Conduct outreach activities to train and prepare members and/or
staff on the implementation of such models. Optional partners may
include educational institutions, or other community and/or workforce
organizations as appropriate.
Pursuant to Section V, applications will be scored on the extent to
which applicants describe strategies for working in partnerships as
described above.
As provided below, these funds will be awarded to develop programs
that provide job training and related assistance designed to assist
employed and unemployed workers in gaining the skills and competencies
needed to obtain or upgrade career ladder employment positions in the
occupations and industries for which employers are using H-1B visas to
hire foreign workers. Funds may also be used to enhance the provision
of job training services and information, such as the development of
curricula and program models, to build core competencies and train
workers. Note: See Attachment 1 to this notice for a list of the ``H-1B
Industry Sectors and Occupations''.
Activities funded under this solicitation must support the
advancement of Registered Apprenticeship by national industry and/or
employer associations, national labor-management organizations, and
other national organizations that demonstrate the capacity to advance
registered apprenticeship through the development of new or modified
apprenticeship standards using the elements of the 21st century
Registered Apprenticeship framework.
Activities to be conducted under these options may include:
Implementation
A. Developing new or modified standards that utilize a minimum of
four elements of the 21st century approach to preparing workers. (The
seven elements of this approach are outlined in the introductory
summary of this document.) Note: Applicants must pilot the new model in
at least four programs and train a minimum of 100 apprentices total or
25 apprentices in the new model at each site.
B. Developing new or modified curriculum;
C. Provide on-the-job training geared towards skills assessment;
D. Developing a skills assessment tool for competency-based models
(if applicable);
E. Partnering with the Registration Agency, and/or the public
workforce system, and/or secondary and post-secondary educational
entities;
F. Use of technology-based learning such as on-line discussions or
simulations;
G. Develop programs and training utilizing competency-based, and/or
hybrid (competency/time-based) models, and/or interim credentials.
Training and Outreach
A. Training approximately 10 affiliates and/or 100-150 members and
staff on the implementation of apprenticeship standards that utilize
the new regulatory framework governing the National Apprenticeship
system;
B. Training apprenticeship instructors on new requirements;
C. Conducting outreach to members, staff, partners, and affiliated
sites on apprenticeship standards that utilize elements of this
framework.
Implementation, Training & Outreach
A. Train approximately 10 affiliates and/or 100-150 members and
staff on the implementation of apprenticeship standards that utilize
the new regulatory framework governing the National Apprenticeship
system;
B. Train apprenticeship instructors on new requirements;
C. Conduct outreach to members, staff, partners, and affiliated
sites on apprenticeship standards that utilize elements of this
framework.
D. Develop new or modify existing standards that utilize a minimum
of four elements of the 21st century approach to preparing workers.
(The seven elements of this approach are outlined in the introductory
summary of this document.) Note: Applicants must pilot the new model
for one national guideline standard or in at least four programs and
train a minimum of 100 apprentices total or 25 apprentices in the new
model at each site.
E. Develop new or modify existing curriculum;
F. Provide on-the-job training geared towards skills assessment;
G. Develop a skills assessment tool for competency-based models (if
applicable);
H. Partner with OA, SAA, and/or the public workforce system, and/or
secondary and post-secondary educational entities;
I. Use of technology-based learning such as on-line learning,
simulations, etc.;
J. Develop programs and training utilizing competency-based, and/or
hybrid (competency/time-based) models, and/or interim credentials.
3. Cost Sharing
Cost sharing or matching funds are not required as a condition for
application, but leveraged resources are strongly encouraged and
failure to commit and integrate leveraged resources into the project
may have a significant impact on an applicant's ability to successfully
compete for grant funds. As described in Part V, applications will be
scored based on the quality and the degree to which the source and use
of leveraged funds are clearly explained, and the extent to which they
are integrated into the project in support of grant outcomes.
4. Period of Performance
The period of performance will be 24 months from the date of
execution of the grant documents.
ETA may approve a request for a no-cost extension to grantees for
an additional period of time based on the success of the project and
other relevant factors.
5. Funding Restrictions
Determinations of allowable costs will be made in accordance with
the applicable federal cost principles. Disallowed costs are those
charges to a grant that the grantor agency or its representative
determines not to be allowed in accordance with the applicable federal
cost principles or other conditions contained in the grant. Applicants
will not be entitled to reimbursement of pre-award costs.
Indirect Costs. As specified in the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) Circular Cost Principles, indirect costs are those that have been
incurred for common or joint objectives and
[[Page 2624]]
cannot be readily identified with a particular cost objective. An
indirect cost rate (ICR) is required when an organization operates
under more than one grant or other activity whether federally-assisted
or not. Organizations must use the ICR supplied by the relevant federal
agency, in this case, ETA. If an organization requires a new ICR or has
a pending ICR, the Grant Officer will award a temporary billing rate
for 90 days until a provisional rate can be issued. This rate is based
on the fact that an organization has not established an ICR agreement.
Within this 90-day period, the organization must submit an acceptable
indirect cost proposal to their Federal cognizant agency to obtain a
provisional ICR.
Administrative Costs. An entity that receives a grant under this
solicitation may not use more than 10 percent of the amount of the
grant to pay administrative costs associated with the program or
project. Administrative costs, which could be both direct and indirect
costs, are specified at 20 CFR 667.220. Administrative costs do not
need to be identified separately from program costs on the Standard
Form 424A Budget Information Form. Administrative costs should be
discussed in the budget narrative and tracked through the grantee's
accounting system. To claim any administrative costs that are also
indirect costs, the applicant must obtain an indirect cost rate
agreement from its Federal cognizant agency as specified above.
Salary and Bonus Limitations. None of the funds appropriated in
Public Law 109-149, Public Law 110-5, or prior Acts under the heading
``Employment and Training'' that are available for expenditure on or
after June 15, 2006, shall be used by a recipient or sub-recipient of
such funds to pay the salary and bonuses of an individual, either as
direct costs or indirect costs, at a rate in excess of Executive Level
II, except as provided for under section 101 of Public Law 109-149.
This limitation shall not apply to vendors providing goods and services
as defined in OMB Circular A-133. See Training and Employment Guidance
Letter number 5-06 for further clarification: http://wdr.doleta.gov/
directives/corr_doc.cfm?DOCN=2262
Legal Rules Pertaining to Inherently Religious Activities by
Organizations that Receive Federal Financial Assistance. Direct Federal
grants, sub-awards, or contracts under this program must not be used to
support inherently religious activities such as religious instruction,
worship, or proselytizing. Therefore, organizations must take steps to
separate, in time or location, their inherently religious activities
from the services supported with DOL financial assistance under this
program. Neutral, secular criteria that neither favor nor disfavor
religion must be employed in the selection of grant and sub-grant
recipients. In addition, under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and
DOL regulations implementing the Workforce Investment Act, a recipient
may not use direct Federal assistance to train a participant in
religious activities, or employ participants to construct, operate, or
maintain any part of a facility that is used or to be used for
religious instruction or worship. See 29 CFR 37.6(f). Under WIA, ``no
individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits
of, subjected to discrimination under, or denied employment in the
administration of or in connection with, any such program or activity
because of race, color, religion, sex (except as otherwise permitted
under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the Religious
Freedom Restoration Act of 1993), national origin, age, disability, or
political affiliation or belief.'' Regulations pertaining to the Equal
Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, which includes the prohibition
against supporting inherently religious activities with direct DOL
financial assistance, can be found at 29 CFR Part 2, Subpart D.
Provisions relating to the use of indirect support (such as vouchers)
are at 29 CFR 2.33(c) and 20 CFR 667.266.
A faith-based organization receiving federal financial assistance
retains its independence from Federal, State, and local governments,
and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition,
practice, and expression of its religious beliefs. For example, a
faith-based organization may use space in its facilities to provide
secular programs or services supported with Federal financial
assistance without removing religious art, icons, scriptures, or other
religious symbols. In addition, a faith-based organization that
receives Federal financial assistance retains its authority over its
internal governance, and it may retain religious terms in its
organization's name, select its board members on a religious basis, and
include religious references in its organization's mission statements
and other governing documents in accordance with all program
requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirements governing the
conduct of DOL funded activities.
The Department notes that the Religious Freedom Restoration Act
(RFRA), 42 U.S.C. 2000bb, applies to all Federal law and its
implementation. If your organization is a faith-based organization that
makes hiring decisions on the basis of religious belief, it may be
entitled to receive Federal financial assistance under Title I of the
Workforce Investment Act and maintain that hiring practice even though
Section 188 of the Workforce Investment Act contains a general ban on
religious discrimination in employment. If you are awarded a grant, you
will be provided with information on how to request such an exemption.
Faith-based and community organizations may reference
``Transforming Partnerships: How to Apply the U.S. Department of
Labor's Equal Treatment and Religion-Related Regulations to Public-
Private Partnerships'' at: http://www.workforce3one.org/public/_
shared/detail.cfm?id=5566&simple=false.
Intellectual Property Rights. The Federal Government reserves a
paid-up, nonexclusive and irrevocable license to reproduce, publish or
otherwise use, and to authorize others to use for federal purposes: (i)
The copyright in all products developed under the grant, including a
subgrant or contract under the grant or subgrant; and (ii) any rights
to copyright to which the grantee, subgrantee or a contractor purchases
ownership under an award (including but not limited to curricula,
training models, technical assistance products, and any related
materials). Such uses include, but are not limited to, the right to
modify and distribute such products worldwide by any means,
electronically or otherwise. Federal funds may not be used to pay any
royalty or licensing fee associated with such copyrighted material,
although they may be used to pay costs for obtaining a copy which is
limited to the developer/seller costs of copying and shipping.
If revenues are generated through selling products developed with
grant funds, including intellectual property, these revenues are
program income. Program income is added to the grant and must be
expended for allowable grant activities.
Part III. Eligibility Information
Under this announcement, eligible applicants include the following
entities:
A. National Industry Associations that demonstrate the capacity to
advance registered apprenticeship through the development of new or
modified apprenticeship standards using the elements of the 21st
century Registered Apprenticeship framework;
B. National Employer Associations that demonstrate the capacity to
advance registered apprenticeship
[[Page 2625]]
through the development of new or modified apprenticeship standards
using the elements of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship
framework;
C. National Labor-Management Organizations that demonstrate the
capacity to advance registered apprenticeship through the development
of new or modified apprenticeship standards using the elements of the
21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework; and
D. Other National Organizations that demonstrate the capacity to
advance registered apprenticeship through the development of new or
modified apprenticeship standards using the elements of the 21st
century Registered Apprenticeship framework.
Part IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address To Request Application Package
This announcement includes all information and forms needed to
apply for this funding opportunity.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
The proposal must consist of two separate and distinct parts, Parts
I and II. Applications that fail to adhere to the instructions in this
section will be considered non-responsive and may not be given further
consideration.
A. Part I is the Cost Proposal and must include the following three
items:
The Standard Form (SF) 424, ``Application for Federal
Assistance'' (available at http://www07.grants.gov/agencies/approved_
standard_forms.jsp). The SF-424 must clearly identify the applicant
and be signed by an individual with authority to enter into a grant
agreement. Upon confirmation of an award, the individual signing the SF
424 on behalf of the applicant shall be considered the representative
of the applicant. On line 12 of the SF 424, applicants must also
indicate the component (from Part II: Award Information--Section 1--
Award Amount: A. Implementation; B. Training & Outreach; C. Training,
Outreach & Implementation) for which they are applying for funds under
this notice. Applicants that fail to indicate the component for which
they are applying for funds under this notice will be deemed non-
responsive by DOL and the application will not be accepted for award
consideration.
Dun and Bradstreet (DUNS) number. All applicants for
Federal grant and funding opportunities are required to have a DUNS
number. See OMB Notice of Final Policy Issuance, 68 FR 38402 (June 27,
2003). Applicants must supply their DUNS number on the SF-424. The DUNS
number is a nine-digit identification number that uniquely identifies
business entities. Obtaining a DUNS number is easy and there is no
charge. To obtain a DUNS number, access this Web site: http://
www.dnb.com/us/ or call 1-866-705-5711.
The SF-424-A Budget Information Form (available at: http:/
/www07.grants.gov/agencies/approved_standard_forms.jsp). In preparing
the Budget Information Form, the applicant must provide a concise
narrative explanation to support the request. The budget narrative
should break down the budget and leveraged resources by the activities
specified in the technical proposal. The narrative should also discuss
precisely how the administrative costs support the project goals.
Applicants that fail to provide a SF-424, SF-424-A and/or a budget
narrative will be removed from consideration prior to the technical
review process. Leveraged resources should not be listed on the SF-424
or SF-424-A Budget Information Form, but must be described in the
budget narrative and in Part II of the proposal. The amount of Federal
funding requested for the entire period of performance must be shown on
the SF-424 and SF-424-A Budget Information Form. Applicants are also
encouraged, but not required, to submit OMB control number 1890-0014:
Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants, which can be found
at: http://www.doleta.gov/grants/find_grants.cfm.
B. Part II is the technical proposal. The following information is
required as part of the technical proposal:
A table of contents listing the application sections.
A 2-3 page abstract summarizing the proposed project and
applicant profile information including: (1) Applicant name; (2)
project title; (3) overview of strategies; (4) partnership members; and
(5) requested funding level.
A timeline outlining project activities.
The technical proposal of the application demonstrates the
applicant's capabilities to fulfill the intention of the SGA. The
Technical Proposal is limited to 10 double-spaced, single-sided, 8.5-
inch-by-11-inch pages with 12-point font and 1-inch margins. Please
note that the budget, the abstract, and the timeline are not included
in the 10-page limit (See Below). In addition to the technical
proposal, the applicant may provide resumes, a staffing pattern,
statistical information, letters of support, and related materials in
attachments. The applicant must reference any participating entities in
the text of the Technical Proposal. Applications that do not meet these
requirements will not be considered.
Applications may be submitted electronically on www.grants.gov or
in hard-copy via U.S. mail, professional delivery service, or hand
delivery. These processes are described in further detail in Section
IV(3). Applicants submitting proposals in hard-copy must submit an
original signed application (including the SF 424) and one (1) ``copy-
ready'' version free of bindings, staples or protruding tabs to ease in
the reproduction of the proposal by DOL. Applicants submitting
proposals in hard-copy are also requested, though not required, to
provide an electronic copy of the proposal on CD-ROM.
3. Submission Dates and Times
The closing date for receipt of applications under this
announcement is March 16, 2009. Applications must be received at the
address below no later than 5 p.m. (Eastern Time). Applications
submitted electronically through Grants.gov, must be successfully
submitted at http://www.grants.gov no later than 5:00:00 p.m. (Eastern
Time) March 16, 2009, and then subsequently validated by Grants.gov.
The submission and validation process is described in more detail
below. The process can be complicated and time-consuming. Applicants
are strongly advised to initiate the process as soon as possible and to
plan for time to resolve technical problems if necessary.
Applications sent by e-mail, telegram, or facsimile (fax) will not
be accepted.
If an application is submitted by both hard-copy and through
www.grants.gov a letter must accompany the hard-copy application
stating why two applications were submitted and the differences between
the two submissions. If no letter accompanies the hard-copy we will
review the copy submitted through www.grants.gov. For multiple
applications submitted through www.grants.gov we will review the latest
submittal.
Applications that do not meet the conditions set forth in this
notice will not be honored. No exceptions to the mailing and delivery
requirements set forth in this notice will be granted.
Mail/overnight mail/hand delivery--To apply by mail, please submit
one (1) blue-ink signed, typewritten original of the application and
two (2) signed photocopies in one package to the U.S. Department of
Labor, Employment and Training Administration, Division of
[[Page 2626]]
Federal Assistance, Attention: Mamie Williams, Reference SGA/DFA PY 08-
11, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Room N-4716, Washington, DC 20210.
Information about applying online through www.grants.gov can be found
in Section IV.B of this document. Applicants are advised that mail
delivery in the Washington area may be delayed due to mail
decontamination procedures. Hand delivered proposals will be received
at the above address.
Electronic submission_Applicants may apply online through
Grants.gov (http://www.grants.gov). It is strongly recommended that
before the applicant begins to write the proposal, applicants should
immediately initiate and complete the ``Get Registered'' registration
steps at http://www.grants.gov/applicants/get_registered.jsp. These
steps may take multiple days or weeks to complete, and this time should
be factored into plans for electronic submission in order to avoid
unexpected delays that could result in the rejection of an application.
It is highly recommended that applicants use the ``Organization
Registration Checklist'' at http://www.grants.gov/assets/Organization_
Steps_Complete_Registration.pdf to ensure the registration process is
complete.
Within two business days of application submission, Grants.gov will
send the applicant two email messages to provide the status of
application progress through the system. The first email, almost
immediate, will confirm receipt of the application by Grants.gov. The
second email will indicate the application has either been successfully
validated or has been rejected due to errors. Only applications that
have been successfully submitted and successfully validated will be
considered. It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to ensure a
timely submission, therefore sufficient time should be allotted for
submission (two business days), and if applicable, subsequent time to
address errors and receive validation upon resubmission (an additional
two business days for each ensuing submission). It is important to note
that if sufficient time is not allotted and a rejection notice is
received after the due date and time, the application will not be
considered.
The components of the application must be saved as either .doc,
.xls or .pdf files. Documents received in a format other than .doc,
.xls or .pdf will not be read.
The Grants.gov helpdesk is available from 7 a.m. (Eastern Time)
until 9 p.m. (Eastern Time). Applicants should factor the
unavailability of the Grants.gov helpdesk after 9 p.m. (Eastern Time)
into plans for submitting an application. Applicants are strongly
advised to utilize the plethora of tools and documents, including FAQs,
that are available on the ``Applicant Resources'' page at http://
www.grants.gov/applicants/app_help_reso.jsp#faqs. To receive updated
information about critical issues, new tips for users and other time
sensitive updates as information is available, applicants may subscribe
to ``Grants.gov Updates'' at http://www.grants.gov/applicants/email_
subscription_signup.jsp.
If applicants encounter a problem with Grants.gov and do not find
an answer in any of the other resources, call 1-800-518-4726 to speak
to a Customer Support Representative or email support@grants.gov.
Late Applications: For applications submitted on Grants.gov, only
applications that have been successfully submitted no later than
5:00:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on the closing date and successfully
validated will be considered. For applicants not submitting on
Grants.gov, any application received after the exact date and time
specified for receipt at the office designated in this notice will not
be considered, unless it is received before awards are made, was
properly addressed, and: (a) Was sent by U.S. Postal Service registered
or certified mail not later than the fifth calendar day before the date
specified for receipt of applications (e.g., an application required to
be received by the 20th of the month must be postmarked by the 15th of
that month) or (b) was sent by professional overnight delivery service
to the addressee not later than one working day prior to the date
specified for receipt of applications. ``Postmarked'' means a printed,
stamped or otherwise placed impression (exclusive of a postage meter
machine impression) that is readily identifiable, without further
action, as having been supplied or affixed on the date of mailing by an
employee of the U.S. Postal Service. Therefore, applicants should
request the postal clerk to place a legible hand cancellation ``bull's
eye'' postmark on both the receipt and the package. Failure to adhere
to the above instructions will be a basis for a determination of non-
responsiveness. Evidence of timely submission by a professional
overnight delivery service must be demonstrated by equally reliable
evidence created by the delivery service provider indicating the time
and place of receipt.
4. Funding Restrictions
Determinations of allowable costs will be made in accordance with
the applicable Federal cost principles as indicated in Part VI(2).
Disallowed costs are those charges to a grant that the grantor agency
or its representative determines not to be allowed in accordance with
the applicable Federal cost principles or other conditions contained in
the grant.
5. Withdrawal of Applications
Applications may be withdrawn by written notice or telegram
(including Mailgram) received at any time before an award is made.
Applications may be withdrawn in person by the applicant or by an
authorized representative thereof, if the representative's identity is
made known and the representative signs a receipt for the proposal.
6. Intergovernmental Review
This funding opportunity is not subject to Executive Order (EO)
12372, ``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.''
Part V. Application Review Information
1. Evaluation Criteria
This section identifies and describes the criteria that will be
used to evaluate the proposals for the Advancing Apprenticeship
Initiative. The factors on which the proposals will be evaluated are
delineated in the same order as the criterion is listed under each
component. The factors follow the evaluation criteria for each
component.
Implementation
1. How do you plan to develop new program standards or to revise
existing standards? Describe the occupation(s) for which you have
utilized, or will utilize competency-based and/or hybrid (competency/
time-based) models, interim credentials, technology-based learning, or
other elements of a 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework.
(15 points)
2. How you plan to work with the Registration Agency (OA or the
recognized SAA) to develop new program standards or revise existing
standards. What experience have you had working with a Registration
Agency to develop, revise or implement program standards? (10 points)
3. How will you develop new or modify training curricula to
implement the competency-based and hybrid models for apprenticeship?
(10 points)
4. How will you measure the development of On-the-Job-Learning
(OJL) skills? How will you determine the amount of OJL time needed for
an apprentice to demonstrate competency in particular skills? How will
you track apprentices' progression through competency-based or hybrid
model
[[Page 2627]]
apprenticeships? Please describe what tools will be developed and how
they will be implemented. (10 points)
5. Describe how you will work with your members and affiliates to
establish and operate at least four programs, with enrollment of at
least 25 apprentices, that utilize the competency-based or hybrid model
and provide for issuance of interim credentials. (10 points)
6. How many new programs (at least four) will you develop? How will
you determine the occupations for which you are developing and
implementing new programs? (10 points)
7. How will you recruit and train the new apprentices in
competency-based and hybrid programs (minimum of 25 at each location or
a total of 100 apprentices)? (10 points)
8. To what extent will other resources be available to carry out
activities; and how will these new programs be sustained during and
beyond the period of performance under the grant? (15 points)
9. Describe how you will work in partnership with any other
industry, employer or labor-management organization, the public
workforce system, or educational institutions. Please describe each
group's role. (5 points)
10. Describe how you will use technology-based learning to help
apprentices learn. (5 points)
The score for each of the factors delineated under this component
will be evaluated on:
The extent to which the applicant describes plans to
develop training programs that will be targeted for development of
standards that utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship
framework. Responses should include information on the studies and
research used to identify to identify the programs to be developed for
standard development.
The extent to which the applicant describes plans to work
with the registration agency and describes the level of experience the
applicant has in working with the registration agency to develop,
revise or implement apprenticeship program standards.
The extent to which the applicant describes plans to
develop new, or modify existing, training curricula to establish and
implement competency-based and hybrid models for apprenticeship.
Responses should include a detailed explanation of how the curricula to
be developed will assist users in advancing through apprenticeships
that utilize competency-based and hybrid models which result in the
issuance of interim credentials.
The ability of the applicant to identify what evaluation
measures and/or tools will be used to determine the amount of On-the-
Job-Learning time needed to demonstrate competency in particular skills
to track progression of Apprentices through competency-based or hybrid
model apprenticeships.
The extent to which the applicant describes plans to
collaborate with its members and affiliates to establish and operate
programs that utilize competency-based or hybrid model apprenticeship
programs. Responses should describe how strategies will be shared with
members and affiliates and how the strategies support collaborations
that result in successful development of programs that utilize the 21st
century Registered Apprenticeship framework.
The extent to which the applicant can identify and
describe the new programs (minimum of four) to be developed and
describe the research and/or studies used or developed to determine the
occupations it will identify for development and implementation of new
training programs for apprentices (industry growth statistics, regional
or local employment growth statistics, applicant experience in a
specific occupational training, etc).
How thoroughly the applicant describes the strategies to
be used to recruit and train new apprentices in competency-based and
hybrid programs. Responses should include identification and
explanation of the strategies and how they will lead to the successful
recruitment and training of apprentices.
The nature and quality of leveraged resources and the
extent to which the resources will support grant activities; and the
extent to which the applicant can identify and describe the strategies
to be used for sustainment of new programs beyond the period of
performance of the grant. Responses should provide evidence that key
partners have expressed a clear commitment to providing resources to
the project, and an explanation of how the strategies will increase the
ability of the applicant to continue to successfully sustain the
program without additional grant funds.
The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes
strategies for working with other industry, employer, or labor-
management organizations, the public workforce system, and educational
institutions to develop, or modify existing programs to develop, revise
or implement apprenticeship program standards. Responses should
identify who the applicant plans to partner with, the applicant and
partner's roles and responsibilities, and how the partnerships will
lead to the successful development or modification of programs.
The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes
what technology-based learning tools will be used to help apprentices
learn. Responses should describe how the technology-based learning will
be used to help apprentices learn through the use of competency-based
and hybrid models that lead to the issuance of interim credentials.
Training and Outreach
1. Please describe who will you train and/or who will be the focus
of your outreach. (15 points)
2. What curriculum and/or tools will be developed and how will they
be incorporated into your training and/or outreach? (20 points)
3. Describe strategies for conducting outreach to expand and
promote implementation of competency-based and hybrid model
apprenticeship programs, as well as interim credentials by your
membership and industry. (15 points)
4. Describe strategies for training your membership and staff on
the new model. (15 points)
5. How will this new training framework be sustained? (15 points)
6. How will you work in partnership with any other industry,
employer or labor-management organization, the public workforce system,
or educational institutions and if so, who and how. Please describe
each group's role. (5 points)
7. Describe how you will use technology-based learning to prepare
staff and/or members to develop and implement training programs that
utilize competency-based and/or hybrid models. (5 points)
8. How do you plan to evaluate the effectiveness of training and
outreach efforts to identify whether the activities are successful in
expanding the use of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship
framework (e.g. surveys, member questionnaires, other identifiable
evaluation factors)? (10 points)
The score for each of the factors delineated under this component
will be evaluated on:
The ability of the applicant to identify who will be
targeted for training on the 21st Registered Apprenticeship framework
and/or targeted for outreach to promote the use of the 21st century
Registered Apprenticeship framework. Responses should describe how
those targeted for training and outreach will assist in the
[[Page 2628]]
development of programs that utilize the 21st century Registered
Apprenticeship framework.
The extent to which the applicant can describe the course
materials and or learning tools that will be developed and how they
will be used for training and outreach on the 21st century Registered
Apprenticeship framework.
The extent to which the applicant can identify and
describe the strategies to be used to promote the use of elements of
the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework, specifically the
use of competency-based models and hybrid models, by applicant members
and industry partners and/or affiliates. Responses should include an
explanation of why the outreach strategies will lead to increased use
of competency-based and hybrid models programs that lead to the
issuance of interim credentials.
The extent to which the applicant can identify and
describe the strategies to be used to train its members and/or staff on
the elements of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship model.
Responses should include explanation of how the strategies will prepare
applicant's members and/or staff to develop and/or modify programs to
utilize competency-based and hybrid models that lead to the issuance of
interim credentials.
The nature and quality of leveraged resources and the
extent to which the resources will support grant activities; and the
extent to which the applicant can identify and describe the strategies
to be used for sustainment of new programs beyond the period of
performance of the grant. Responses should provide evidence that key
partners have expressed a clear commitment to providing resources to
the project, and an explanation of how the strategies will increase the
ability of the applicant to continue to successfully sustain the
program without additional grant funds.
The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes
strategies for working with other industry, employer, or labor-
management organizations, the public workforce system, and educational
institutions to develop, or modify existing training programs to
prepare its staff and/or members to develop, revise or implement
apprenticeship program standards that utilize competency-based and
hybrid models. Responses should identify who the applicant plans to
partner with, the applicant and partner's roles and responsibilities,
and how the partnerships will lead to the successful training of staff
and/or members on the development or modification of programs that
utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework.
The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes
what technology-based learning tools will be used to help train its
members and/or staff to develop, revise or implement apprenticeship
program standards that utilize competency-based and hybrid models.
The ability of the applicant to identify what evaluation
measures and/or tools will be used to determine the effectiveness of
training and/or outreach to its staff, members and partners on the
development or modification of apprenticeship programs that utilize
competency-based or hybrid models.
Implementation, Training and Outreach
1. How do you plan to develop new program standards or to revise
existing standards? Describe the occupation(s) for which you have
utilized, or will utilize competency-based and/or hybrid (competency/
time-based) models, interim credentials, technology-based learning, or
other elements of a 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework.
(10 points)
2. How you plan to work with the Registration Agency (OA or the
recognized SAA) to develop new program standards or revise existing
standards. What experience have you had working with a Registration
Agency to develop, revise or implement program standards? (10 points)
3. How will you develop new or modify training curricula to
implement the competency-based and hybrid models for apprenticeship?
(10 points)
4. How will you develop On-the-Job-Learning (OJL) skills
assessments and how will you track apprentices' progression? Please
describe what tool/s will be developed and how they will be
incorporated into the new learning model. (10 points)
5. How will you recruit and train the new apprentices under the new
model (minimum of 25 at each location or a total of 100 apprentices)?
Describe how you will work with your members and affiliates to
implement the new standards in at least four locations with a minimum
of 25 apprentices at each site or a grand total of 100 apprentices. (10
points)
6. Who will you train and/or will be the focus your outreach and or
staff training? (5 points)
7. Please describe what curriculum and/or tool/s will be developed
and how they will be incorporated into the new learning model. (15
points)
8. Describe strategies for conducting outreach to expand and
promote implementation of the new model to your membership and
industry. (5 points)
9. How will this new training framework be sustained? (5 points)
10. Will you work in partnership with any other industry, employer
or labor-management organization, the public workforce system, or
educational institutions and if so, who and how? Please describe each
group's role. (5 points)
11. Describe how you will use technology-based learning to help
apprentices learn. (5 points)
12. How do you plan to evaluate the effectiveness of training and
outreach efforts to identify whether the activities are successful in
expanding the use of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship
framework (e.g. surveys, member questionnaire's, other identifiable
evaluation factors). (10 points)
The score for each of the factors delineated under this component
will be evaluated on:
The extent to which the applicant describes plans to
develop training programs that will be targeted for development of
standards that utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship
framework. Responses should include information on the studies and
research used to identify the programs to be developed for standard
development.
The extent to which the applicant describes plans to work
with the registration agency and describes the level of experience the
applicant has in working with the registration agency to develop,
revise or implement apprenticeship program standards
The extent to which the applicant describes plans to
develop new, or modify existing, training curricula to establish and
implement competency-based and hybrid models for apprenticeship.
Responses should include a detailed explanation of how the curricula to
be developed will assist users in advancing through apprenticeships
that utilize competency-based and hybrid models which result in the
issuance of interim credentials.
The ability of the applicant to identify what evaluation
measures and/or tools will be used to determine the amount of On-the-
Job-Learning time needed to demonstrate competency in particular skills
to track progression of Apprentices through competency-based or hybrid
model apprenticeships.
How thoroughly the applicant describes the strategies to
be used to work with the applicant's members, affiliates, other
industries and/or to recruit and train a minimum of 100 new
[[Page 2629]]
apprentices in a minimum of four competency-based and hybrid programs.
Responses should include identification and explanation of the
strategies and how they will lead to the successful recruitment and
training of apprentices.
The ability of the applicant to identify who will be
targeted for training on the 21st Registered Apprenticeship framework
and/or targeted for outreach to promote the use of the 21st century
Registered Apprenticeship framework. Responses should describe how
those targeted for training and outreach will assist in the development
of programs that utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship
framework.
The extent to which the applicant can describe the course
materials and or learning tools that will be developed and how they
will be used for training and outreach on the 21st century Registered
Apprenticeship framework.
The extent to which the applicant can identify and
describe the strategies to be used to train its members and/or staff on
the elements of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship model.
Responses should include explanation of how the strategies will prepare
applicant's members and/or staff to develop and/or modify programs to
utilize competency-based and hybrid models that lead to the issuance of
interim credentials.
The nature and quality of leveraged resources and the
extent to which the resources will support grant activities; and the
extent to which the applicant can identify and describe the strategies
to be used for sustainment of new programs beyond the period of
performance of the grant. Responses should provide evidence that key
partners have expressed a clear commitment to providing resources to
the project, and an explanation of how the strategies will increase the
ability of the applicant to continue to successfully sustain the
program without additional grant funds.
The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes
strategies for working with other industry, employer, or labor-
management organizations, the public workforce system, and educational
institutions to develop, or modify existing training programs to
prepare its staff and/or members to develop, revise or implement
apprenticeship program standards that utilize competency-based and
hybrid models. Responses should identify who the applicant plans to
partner with, the applicant and partner's roles and responsibilities,
and how the partnerships will lead to the successful training of staff
and/or members on the development or modification of programs that
utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework.
The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes
what technology-based learning tools will be used to help apprentices
learn. Responses should describe how the technology-based learning will
be used to help apprentices learn through the use of competency-based
and hybrid models that lead to the issuance of interim credentials.
The ability of the applicant to identify what evaluation
measures and/or tools will be used to determine the effectiveness of
training and/or outreach to its staff, members and partners on the
development or modification of apprenticeship programs that utilize
competency-based or hybrid models
Review and Selection Process
A review panel will carefully evaluate applications against the
rating criteria described in Part V (1), which are based on the policy
goals, priorities, and emphases set forth in this SGA. Up to 100 points
may be awarded to an application, based on the Rating Criteria
described in Part V(1).
Proposals will be grouped by the category for which they apply, and
the proposals within each category will be rated separately. The ranked
scores will serve as the primary basis for selection of applications
for funding, in conjunction with other factors such as the availability
of funds; and proposals that are most advantageous to the government.
The panel results are advisory in nature and not binding on the grant
Officer, who may consider any information that comes to his attention
including information provided by OA; the availability of funds; and
what is most advantageous to the government, in making award
determinations. The Government will consider applications with a score
of 80 or above to be eligible for a grant award. Applicants that score
less than 80 will not be eligible for a grant award. If no fundable
proposals are received for a given category, additional awards may be
made in the other categories. The government reserves the right to
award grants with or without discussions or negotiations with
applicants. Should a grant be awarded without negotiations, the award
will be based on the applicant's signature on the SF-424, which
constitutes a binding offer.
The government reserves the right to award grants with or without
discussions or negotiations with applicants. Should a grant be awarded
without negotiations, the award will be based on the applicant's
signature on the SF-424, which constitutes a binding offer.
Part VI. Award Administrative Information
1. Award Notices
All award notifications will be posted on the ETA Web site at:
http://www.doleta.gov/grants/find_grants.cfm. Applicants selected for
award will be contacted directly before the grant's execution.
Applicants not selected for award will be notified by mail as soon as
possible.
Note: Selection of an organization as a grantee does not
constitute approval of the grant application as submitted. Before
the actual grant is awarded, ETA may enter into negotiations about
such items as program components, staffing, and administrative
systems in place to support grant implementation. If negotiations do
not result in a mutually acceptable submission, the Grant Officer
reserves the right to terminate the negotiation and decline to fund
the application.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements--Administrative
Program Requirements
All grantees will be subject to all applicable Federal laws
(including provisions in appropriations law), regulations, and the
applicable Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circulars. The
applicants selected under the SGA will be subject to the following
administrative standards and provisions, if applicable:
29 CFR Part 29--Labor Standards for the Registration of
Apprenticeship Programs
29 CFR Part 29--Apprenticeship Programs, Labor Standards
for Registration, Amendment of Regulations; Final Rule.
Workforce Investment Act--20 Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR) Part 667 Subpart B (Administrative Rules, Costs and Limitations)
and Subpart H (Administrative Adjudication and Judicial Review).
Non-Profit Organizations--2 CFR Part 230 (Cost Principles,
formerly Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-122) and 29
CFR Part 95 (Administrative Requirements).
Educational Institutions--2 CFR Part 220 (Cost Principles,
formerly OMB Circular A-21) and 29 CFR part 95 (Administrative
Requirements).
State and Local Governments--2 CFR Part 225 (Cost
Principles, formerly OMB circular A-87) and 29 CFR Part 97
(Administrative Requirements).
All entities must comply with 29 CFR Parts 93 and 98, and
where applicable, 29 CFR Parts 96 and 99.
[[Page 2630]]
In accordance with Section 18 of the Lobbying Disclosure
Act of 1995, Public Law 104-65 (2 U.S.C. 1611), non-profit entities
incorporated under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(4) that engage
in lobbying activities will not be eligible for the receipt of Federal
funds and grants.
29 CFR Part 2, subpart D--Equal Treatment in Department of
Labor Programs for Religious Organizations; Protection of Religious
Liberty of Department of Labor Social Service Providers and
Beneficiaries.
29 CFR Part 30--Equal Employment Opportunity in
Apprenticeship and Training.
29 CFR Part 31--Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted
Programs of the Department of Labor--Effectuation of Title VI of the
Civil Rights Act of 1964.
29 CFR Part 32--Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap
in Programs and Activities Receiving or Benefiting from Federal
Financial Assistance.
29 CFR Part 33--Enforcement of Nondiscrimination on the
Basis of Handicap in Programs or Activities Conducted by the Department
of Labor.
29 CFR Part 35--Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age in
Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance from the
Department of Labor.
29 CFR Part 36--Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex in
Education Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial
Assistance.
29 CFR Part 37--Implementation of the Nondiscrimination
and Equal Opportunity Provisions of the Workforce Investment Act of
1998 (WIA).
(Note: Except as specifically provided in this notice, ETA's
acceptance of a proposal and award of Federal funds to sponsor any
program(s) does not provide a waiver of any grant requirements and/
or procedures. For example, the OMB Circulars require that an
entity's procurement procedures must ensure that all procurement
transactions are conducted, as practical, to provide full and open
competition. If a proposal identifies a specific entity to provide
services, the ETA award does not provide the justification or basis
to sole-source the procurement, i.e., avoid competition.)
3. Reporting Requirements
As a condition of participation in the grant program, applicants
will be required to submit periodic reports such as the Quarterly
Financial Reports, Progress Reports and Final Reports as follows:
Quarterly Financial Reports. A Quarterly Financial Status Report
(ETA 9130)/OMB Approval No. 1205-0461 is required until such time as
all funds have been expended and/or the grant period has expired.
Quarterly financial reports are due 45 days after the end of each
calendar year quarter. Grantees must use ETA's Online Electronic
Reporting System.
Quarterly Progress Reports. The grantee must submit a quarterly
Performance Progress Report, SF-PPR/OMB Approval Number: 0970-0443 to
the designated Federal Project Officer within 45 days after the end of
each calendar year quarter. Two copies are to be submitted providing a
detailed account of activities undertaken during that quarter. ETA may
require additional data elements to be collected and reported on either
a regular basis or special request basis. Please see Part V (1) of this
SGA for the types of data elements ETA will require for quarterly
submission. Applicants must agree to meet ETA's reporting requirements
in order to become a grantee.
The quarterly progress report must be in narrative form and must
include:
1. A comparison of actual accomplishments with the goals and
objectives established for the period. This must include discussion of
placements in apprenticeships, giving the name and address of each
workplace and company involved.
2. Reasons why established goals were not met, if appropriate.
3. Any problems that may impede the performance of the grant and
corrective action proposed or taken.
4. Any changes in the proposed work to be performed during the next
reporting period.
In addition, between scheduled reporting dates, the grantee(s) must
immediately inform the Office of Apprenticeship of significant
developments affecting the ability to accomplish the goals of the
project.
Final Report. A draft final report must be submitted no later than
60 days prior to the expiration date of the grant. This report must
summarize activities, employment outcomes, and related results. After
responding to ETA's questions and comments on the draft report, three
copies of the final report must be submitted no later than the grant
expiration date.
Part VII. Agency Contacts
For further information regarding this SGA, please contact Mamie
Williams, Grants Management Specialist, (202) 693-3341. Any questions
regarding this SGA should be faxed to (202) 693-2879 (not a toll-free
number). You must specifically address your fax to the attention of
Mamie Williams and should include the following information: SGA/DFA PY
08-11, a contact name, fax, and telephone number.
Part VIII. Other Information
1. Veterans Priority
The Jobs for Veterans Act (Pub. L. 107-288) provides priority of
service to veterans and spouses of certain veterans for the receipt of
employment, training, and placement services in any job training
program directly funded, in whole, or in part, by the U.S. Department
of Labor. In circumstances where a `Advancing Registered Apprenticeship
into the 21st Century' grant recipient must choose between two equally
qualified candidates for training, one of whom is a veteran, the Jobs
for Veterans Act requires that `Advancing Registered Apprenticeship
into the 21st Century' grant recipients give the veteran priority of
service by admitting him or her into the program. Please note that, to
obtain priority of service, a veteran must meet the program's
eligibility requirement. ETA Training and Employment guidance Letter
(TEGL) No. 5-03 (September 16, 2003) provides guidance on the scope of
the Jobs for Veterans Act and its effect on current employment and
training programs. TEGL No. 5-03, along with additional guidance, is
available at the ``Jobs for Veterans Priority of Service'' Web site
(http;//www.doleta.gov/programs/vets). The Department published a
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to implement Veterans Priority in August
2008 (73 FR 48086 (Aug. 15, 2008)).
2. Key Definitions
Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship: The Certificate of
Completion of Apprenticeship issued by the Registration Agency to those
registered apprentices certified and documented as successfully
completing the apprentice training requirements outlined in the
Standards of Apprenticeship.
Competency-Based Model: Competency/performance-based apprenticeship
occupations are premised on attainment of demonstrated, observable and
measurable competencies and skills in lieu of meeting time-based work
experience. Work processes are designed to include all the skills
needed to attain competencies and how the mentor/journey worker will
assess the apprentices. Therefore, work process schedules and related
instruction outlines must specify approximate time of completion or
attainment of each competency, which can be applied toward the 2,000-
hour minimum
[[Page 2631]]
requirement (competencies demonstrated not withstanding and assuming no
credit for previous experience). In competency/performance-based
occupations, apprentices may accelerate the rate of competency
achievement or take additional time beyond the approximate time of
completion or attainment due the open entry and exit design.
Hybrid Model: In addition to time-based occupations which have a
fixed set time for completion and competency/performance-based
occupations, a third alternative has evolved which, in effect, is a
``hybrid'' of the two types of occupations previously mentioned. This
third type of training method is basically a combination of time and
performance considerations whereby work processes are developed with a
minimum time/hours for each task or job requirement.
Interim Credential: Interim Credential means a credential issued by
the Registration Agency, upon request of the appropriate sponsor, as
certification of competency attainment by an apprentice. Competency
means the attainment of manual or technical skills and knowledge, as
specified by an occupational standard. Program sponsors shall identify
and define all interim credentials that they choose to utilize. Interim
credentials can only be issued for recognized components of an
apprenticeable occupation as identified by an appropriate job task
analysis.
Technology-Based Learning (TBL): Can be defined as the learning of
content via all-electronic technology, including the Internet,
intranets, satellite broadcasts, audio and video tape, video and audio
conference, Internet conferencing, chat rooms, bulletin boards, Web
casts, computer-based instruction, and CD-ROM. It encompasses related
terms, such as online learning, Web-based learning, computer-based
learning, and e-learning.
Time-Based Model: The traditional Registered Apprenticeship model
is time-based with a minimum requirement of 2,000 hours of on-the-job
learning and 144 hours of related instruction. The majority of
apprenticeship programs use this model.
OMB Information Collection No. 1225-0086.
Expires: September 30, 2009.
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are
required to respond to a collection of information unless such
collection displays a valid OMB control number. Public reporting burden
for this collection of information is estimated to average 20 hours per
response, including time for reviewing instructions, searching existing
data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing
and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding
the burden estimated or any other aspect of this collection of
information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to the OMB
Desk Officer for ETA, Office of Management and Budget, Room 10235,
Washington DC 20503. Please do not return the completed application to
the OMB. Send it to the sponsoring agency as specified in this
solicitation. This information is being collected for the purpose of
awarding a grant. The information collected through this ``Solicitation
for Grant Applications'' will be used by the Department of Labor to
ensure that grants are awarded to the applicants best suited to perform
the functions of the grant. Submission of this information is required
in order for the applicant to be considered for award of this grant.
Unless otherwise specifically noted in this announcement, information
submitted in the respondent's application is not considered to be
confidential.
Signed at Washington, DC, this 9th day of January 2009.
Chari Magruder,
Grant Officer, Employment and Training Administration.
Attachment 1 to SGA/DFA PY 08-11-Advancing Registered Apprenticeship
into the 21st Century: Collaborating for Success
H-1B Industry Sectors and Occupations--Industry Sectors:
Information Technology
Computer Systems Design and Related Services
Software Development/Software Publishers
Data Processing Services
Information Services
Telecommunications
Scientific Research and Development Services (including Biotechnology)
Scientific and Technical Consulting (including Biotechnology)
Architecture, Engineering, Surveying
Specialized Design Services
Construction/Skilled Trades
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate and Administrative Support Services
Accounting, Tax Preparation,
Bookkeeping & Payroll Services
Financial Investment
Securities & Commodity
Brokerage/Contracts
Business Support Services
Insurance Carriers, Agencies,
Brokerages, and Insurance and Employee Benefit Funds
Credit Intermediation
Advanced Manufacturing
Semiconductor and Other Electronic Component Manufacturing
Computer, Electronic Product, and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing
Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing
Communications Equipment Manufacturing
Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments
Manufacturing
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
Aerospace Manufacturing
Chemical and Petrochemical Manufacturing
Motor Vehicle and Parts Manufacturing
Medical Equipment and Supplies Manufacturing
Metalworking Manufacturing
Food Manufacturing
Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing
Automotive Repair/Maintenance
Health Care
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals and Other Hospitals
Offices of Physicians
Offices of Dentists
Offices of Other Health Practitioners
Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories
Nursing and Residential Care Facilities
Home Health Care Services
Energy
Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution
Oil & Gas Extraction, Refining, and Production
Mining and Support Activities for Mining
Pipeline Transportation
Transportation
Air Transportation
Freight and Truck Transportation
Water Transportation
Transportation Support
Cross-Cutting Occupations
Computer Related Occupations
Systems Analysis and Programming
Data Communications and Networks
Computer Systems Technical Support
Computer Systems User Support
Engineering and Related Technical Occupations
Aeronautical
Electrical
Civil
Ceramic
Mechanical
Chemical
[[Page 2632]]
Mining and Petroleum
Metallurgy and Metallurgical
Industrial
Agricultural
Marine
Nuclear
Drafters
Surveying/Cartographic
Architectural.
Occupations in Mathematics and Physical Sciences
Mathematics
Astronomy
Chemistry
Physics
Geology
Meteorology
Occupations in Life Sciences
Agricultural Sciences
Biological Sciences
Occupations in Medicine and Health
Physicians/Surgeons
Osteopaths
Dentists
Veterinarians
Pharmacists
Registered Nurses
Therapists
Dieticians
Medical and Dental Technology
Other Health Care Practitioners
Occupations in Financial and Administrative Fields
Accountants/Auditors
Bookkeepers/Payroll Services
Budget and Management Systems Analysis
Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate Management
Purchasing Managers
Agents/Appraisers
Technology Related Occupations
Process Technicians.
Mechanics/Mechanical Engineering Technicians 43
[FR Doc. E9-653 Filed 1-14-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4510-FT-P