WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today proposed rules to align the national apprenticeship system with the tools and flexibility needed for the 21st century global economy.

“Apprenticeship is a proven model of training that has been expanded beyond its traditional origins in industries such as construction to high growth industries and sectors,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco. “We have proposed new regulations to reflect the 21st century global economy and the changes that have occurred in apprenticeship programs over the past 30 years.”

The proposed rules would set up a more flexible and user-friendly approach for apprentices and employers, and make updates and changes affecting state apprenticeship agencies and the U.S. Department of Labor. The revisions would expand the ways that individuals can advance through apprenticeships. The types of training would expand from one to the following three approaches:

• Competency-based approach, which requires the apprentice to demonstrate competency in the defined subject areas and does not require any specific hours of On-the-Job Training (OJT) or Related Technical Instruction (RTI).
  
  
• Traditional, time-based approach, which requires the apprentice to complete a specific number of OJT and RTI hours.
  
  
• Hybrid approach, which requires the apprentice to complete a minimum number of OJT and RTI hours and demonstrate competency in the defined subject areas.
  
  

Electronic media would be added to the definition of Related Technical Instruction and, as a result, establish technology-based and distance learning as part of an apprentice’s instruction.

The proposed changes provide for interim credential certificates, so that active apprentices can demonstrate their proficiency in particular required skills and competencies to employers. Provisions also feature reciprocity, which would allow programs to cross state lines, so long as the host state’s applicable laws are followed. Program performance and accountability standards would be enhanced, while guidance and technical assistance would continue to give apprenticeship programs the best prospects for success.

The proposed rules appear in today’s Federal Register and can be accessed online at http://www.dol.gov/eta/regs/fedreg/proposed/2007024178.pdf. The 60-day public comment period will end on February 11, 2008.