DOL to Release New Guidelines for Creating Apprenticeship Programs

The Department of Labor will soon issue new guidelines to encourage business groups to create and administer apprenticeship programs so the training can become a viable alternative to college degrees.  According to initial media reports, business groups and employers would be able to certify apprenticeship programs in their respective industries.  The certifying entity would be required to show that it is qualified to establish the classroom and workplace education requirements, structure, and curricula for an apprenticeship program through a consensus-based process involving industry experts.  The guidelines could also lay out requirements for transparency, pay, and education that business groups will have to fulfill in order to participate.