Registered Apprenticeship

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014 promotes the use of Registered Apprenticeship programs. So much so that Registered Apprenticeship programs are allowed automatic inclusion onto the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) maintains a statewide list of Eligible Training Providers who have been approved to receive WIOA funds. Having Registered Apprenticeship programs on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) ensures job seekers are aware of registered apprenticeship opportunities and maximizes the program's visibility within the workforce system.

Apprenticeship TN

The staff with Apprenticeship TN work directly with Tennessee employers interested in exploring the benefits of a Registered Apprenticeship Program. Each grand division of the state has an Apprenticeship Director who can meet one-on-one with area businesses to design, register, and launch a Registered Apprenticeship Program. The Apprenticeship TN website provides interested employers details about the program and contact information.

Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) Benefits

  • All Registered Apprenticeship programs can opt-in to be included on the statewide Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). The only criterion that applies to apprenticeships is that they are registered as apprenticeship programs with the U.S. Department of Labor.
  • They will remain on the list as long as the program is registered or until the sponsor notifies the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) that they no longer want to be on the list.
  • Registered Apprenticeship programs on the ETPL will be available to every Local Workforce Development Area (LWDA) in the State.
  • There is no cost associated with being incorporated on the ETPL.

Benefits of an Apprenticeship

  • Immediate employment in jobs that usually pay higher wages and offer career growth opportunities
  • Higher quality of life and skills versatility
  • Portable credentials recognized nationally and often globally
  • Formal articulation agreements between apprenticeship training programs and 2-4 year colleges create increased opportunities for college credit and future degrees.

Apprenticeship Program Providers

  • Partnership among the Department of Labor (DOL), State agencies, industry leaders, employers, employer associations, labor-management organizations (primarily consisting of labor organizations and employers), and educational institutions
  • Employers who provide formal in-house education (related instruction) as well as on-the-job training at the worksite
  • Employers who provide on-the-job training at the worksite but use outside educational providers for the related instruction portion of the RA program
  • Joint Apprenticeship Training Programs administered jointly by employers and unions
  • Apprenticeship intermediaries, such as educational institutions, industry associations, and community-based organization

Click here to learn more about placement on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL)