Comprehensive Topic Guides
Each guide is an evolving collection of resources compiled by subject matter experts from the PAYA National Partners. Our hope is that these collections can function as a starting point for your search for templates, profiles, and best practices to support your apprenticeship program.
If you have resources you think should be included in the guides, let us know.
Topic Guides
The Basics of Youth Apprenticeship
What is youth apprenticeship? How can I launch one? This guide houses our foundational resources on youth apprenticeship.
Case Studies of Exemplary Programs
One of the best ways to learn about youth apprenticeship is to see how it’s actually being done. In this guide you’ll find some of the best case studies in the library. These resources provide an in depth look at specific youth apprenticeship programs. Review these briefs, videos, and websites to get a view into how real youth apprenticeships are structured to serve students and employers.
Registering Youth Apprenticeship Programs
Registered Apprenticeship is a structured and rigorous model of apprenticeship that requires program sponsors to obtain approval from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Office of Apprenticeship or a federally recognized State Apprenticeship Agency (SAA).
Registered apprenticeships include five core components: employer involvement, structured on-the-job learning, related technical instruction, rewards for skills gains, and a national occupational credential awarded by DOL or an SAA.
Apprentice Recruitment and Support
Central to the success of any youth apprenticeship initiative is the ability to effectively recruit and support apprentices throughout their apprenticeship. This guide offers strategies for attracting, selecting, and sustaining a diverse pool of apprentices.
Employer Partnerships
Employers are foundational partners in youth apprenticeship programs. They work with education partners to identify skill requirements, build training plans, and deliver on-the-job training by offering a paid work experience and helping to define, deliver, and document the learning that takes place. Through these activities, employers anchors youth apprenticeship programs. This guide shares information about how to effectively work with employers on all aspects of youth apprenticeship programs.
Emerging Occupational Pathways
Building strong occupational pathways requires understanding of the local labor market, your own portfolio of apprenticeship programs, and the characteristics of the young people you are serving. This guide provides insights into how to evaluate if an occupational pathway is a good fit for youth apprenticeship.
Data & Evaluation
High-quality data helps track what’s working and what isn’t in order to make informed decisions and clearly showcase the impact of your program. This guide details how to collect and use data to inform the program design and development with continuous improvement in mind.
Collaborating with K-12 and Higher Ed
This guide delves into strategies and tools to foster cooperation with educational institutions, including partnership development, student recruitment, and related technical instruction. Ultimately, this guide aims to help you weave together classroom learning, credit-bearing related instruction, and on-the-job training.