For an Apprenticeship Inquiry
Click here for the Apprenticeship Inquiry for Students or Businesses Online Form
What Is an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship is a proven, industry-driven approach to workforce development that combines paid, hands-on work experience with classroom instruction. Apprentices can earn while they learn, developing job-ready skills and gaining credentials that lead to high quality careers.
Apprenticeships help employers develop skilled talent tailored to their specific needs – while providing individuals with an affordable, debt-free path to a rewarding career.
In Oklahoma, individuals and employers can choose between two powerful apprenticeship pathways — DOL Registered (RAP) and CareerTech (CTA) — each built to align with unique goals and workforce priorities.
Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)
Offered in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor, RAPs are nationally recognized programs for approved occupations. They are highly customizable, require a longer time commitment, and result in a portable industry credential.
Type 02 – US-DOL Registered Apprenticeships (RAPs)
- Require a minimum of 144 hours of RI.
- RAPs must be registered and certified with US-DOL Office of Apprenticeship prior to beginning training. ODCTE Team will assist in this process.
CareerTech Apprenticeship (CTA)
Approved and supported by Oklahoma CareerTech, CareerTech Apprenticeships (CTAs) provide a flexible, efficient pathway to develop skilled talent in Oklahoma’s high-demand occupations. These programs help employers grow their own workforce while upholding the high standards of education and training that define the CareerTech system.
Type 03 - Oklahoma CareerTech Apprenticeships (CTA)
- Require a minimum of 600 total hours, or above, consisting of 15% RI and 85% On-the-job Learning (OJL).
- A completed CareerTech Apprenticeship Agreement must be maintained and submitted to ODCTE prior to beginning a CTA.
- CTA’s must be approved by ODCTE prior to beginning training to be eligible.
RAP & CTA Program Comparison
| Feature | Registered Apprenticeship (RAP) | CareerTech Apprenticeship (CTA) |
| Approval | U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) | Oklahoma CareerTech (ODCTE) |
| Credential | DOL Certification | CareerTech Certificate |
| Hours | 2,000+ **OJL + 144 *RI | 600+ (85% **OJL / 15% *RI) |
| RI Provider | Any qualified provider | CareerTech Technology Centers |
| Impact | Nationally recognized | Fast, flexible state-recognized |
| Age | 16+ | 16+ |
*RI - Related Instruction
*** OJL - On-The-Job-Learning
Meet with Our Team. We’ll review your inquiry and schedule a time to discuss your workforce needs to determine if apprenticeship is the right fit.
Choose a Model (RAP or CTA). Select the apprenticeship option that best aligns with your organization’s structure and training needs.
Develop the Program. Collaborate with our experts and your local CareerTech technology center to design a customized training plan that blends classroom instruction with on-the-job learning.
Sign the Apprenticeship Agreement. We’ll help finalize all documentation and guide you through state or federal registration as needed.
Launch. Begin training your apprentice with the support of CareerTech and your local technology center — building a pipeline of skilled talent ready to grow with your business.
JILL REAVIS
Business Development Center
jreavis@eoctech.edu