An apprenticeship is a combination of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction in which workers learn the practical and theoretical aspects of a highly skilled occupation. Generally, these programs consist of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and roughly 600 hours of classroom instruction. Apprenticeship programs are company sponsored and overseen by joint apprenticeship committees. These committees are responsible for selecting apprenticeship candidates based on rigorous entry requirements. Students interested in apprenticeship programs must apply for an apprenticeship position in order to be considered for an apprenticeship program.

The RMTC works with the regional USDOL Office of Apprenticeship representative to assist companies in designing, registering, and implementing apprenticeship programs. Companies interested in establishing apprenticeship programs should contact the RMTC Director or visit the USDOL Office of Apprenticeship website at http://www.doleta.gov/jobseekers/apprent.cfm.