Resource Center

The National Apprenticeship Resource Hub includes Occupational Frameworks which can help develop a new apprenticeship program or refine an existing program. Each framework outlines the basic information sponsors need to register an apprenticeship program in their occupation including an occupational overview that describes the occupation, alternative job titles, and any prerequisites; a work process schedule that outlines what organizations can expect apprentices to learn on the job and the required hours; and a related technical instruction outline that presents considerations for courses and training apprentices can pursue during the apprenticeship. The National Occupational Frameworks also include detailed instructions on how to use them when creating your registration application.

Link to the Resource Hub Link to the National Occupational Frameworks

Session Description: This intensive full-day session, an abbreviated version of TWC’s popular 5-day Train-the-Trainer Level 1 course, provided both new and experienced trainers with new tools to increase engagement, application, and retention. Participants added to their knowledge, skills, and confidence to fully engage learners and effectively facilitate a variety of instructor-led training programs. Topics included adult learning theory, teaching techniques, and instructional elements that really work! Participants also had the opportunity to observe and critique a teaching demonstration — learning what does and what does not contribute to impactful learning.

Check out experienced instructors and your trainer-peers from across the industry to explore the following topics:

• How do adults learn, and what does adult learning theory tell us that we can use in our training?
• What are the key instructional elements of successful classroom and hands-on training?
• What are lesson plans, and how are they developed?
• Which teaching techniques help strengthen classes and instructional presentations?

Speakers:

• Frank Burnett: Training Specialist – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center
• Julie Deibel-Pundt: Program Director, Instructional Design – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center
• Marina Budeyeva: Instructional Designer – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center
• Jessica Supervielle: Instructional Designer – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center

MC24 TtT Bootcamp slides

Session Description: Participants explored effective methods for identifying training needs and assessing workforce skills gaps to develop robust training programs, all in the context of ensuring worker voice and involvement. The session covered tools and techniques for evaluating current training needs for frontline workers, identified areas for improvement, and aligned training strategies with organizational goals. Attendees learned how to use data-driven approaches to map out training priorities that address immediate operational needs and long-term workforce development.

Moderators:

• Kristen Ribaudo: Senior Instructional Designer – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center
• Stu Bass: Principal – Progress Worx; Founding Director – Keystone Development Partnership

Speakers:

• Jeffrey Di Perna: Financial Secretary/Treasurer – Amalgamated Transit Union Local 85 (PA)
• Jason Macumber: Senior Advisor of Workforce Development and Technology – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center

MC24 Training Needs, Skills Gaps, and Training Programs slides

Session Description: This session was designed to enhance learner engagement by utilizing interactive learning techniques. Through a discussion led by a panel of seasoned instructional designers from varied backgrounds, the workshop demonstrated how to translate material into engaging activities through the use of storytelling, gamification, and real-world problem-solving exercises. Additionally, the workshop showcased a blend of traditional methods and innovative technology tools to create learner-centered instructional experiences that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration through group work and discussions.

Speakers:

• Julie Deibel-Pundt: Program Director, Instructional Design – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center
• Frank Burnett: Training Specialist – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center
• Allie Franklyn: Instructional Designer – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center
• Kristen Ribaudo: Senior Instructional Designer – International Transportation Learning Center / Transit Workforce Center

MC24 Engaging and Interactive Training Strategies slides

“Someone to Rely On”

Mentoring programs are growing more common across transit agencies in the U.S., but most of them are specific to fixed-route operators and technicians. In Ohio, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) and Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 268 have pioneered a structured mentoring program for paratransit operators, as well as fixed-route operators. This “mini case study” focuses on the paratransit mentoring program, including lessons learned from its first two years.

Link to Case Study

In the past decade, the number of hybrid, battery-electric, and hydrogen fuel cell buses has increased substantially across the U.S., particularly as transit locations have made use of FTA’s Low-No grant program. Well-developed and proactive training and preparation of technicians and operators is critical for a successful transition to new vehicle technologies; maintaining and operating newly procured vehicles effectively is necessary for fleet reliability and efficiency. Transit locations have supported training and other initiatives through FTA’s Low-No grants, which offer 5% for workforce development, as well as through formula funds. These mini case studies offer examples of training, retention, and procurement methods being used by transit agencies to support new fleet technologies.

• Foundational Skills and Technician Engagement at Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District
• Bringing Training In-House at Mountain Line and Teamsters Local 2
• Transferable Knowledge and Train-the-Trainer at IndyGo and ATU Local 1070
• Innovative Technology and Documentation for Workforce Transitioning at AC Transit and ATU Local 192
• Training Operators Through Pre-Apprenticeship, Apprenticeship, and Mentorship at Golden Gate Transit and ATU Local 1575
• Frontline Worker Involvement in Vehicle Procurement at SporTran and ATU Local 588
• Midwest Hydrogen Center of Excellence at SARTA and AFSCME Local 1880

Link to Mini Case Studies

In rural communities, widely dispersed populations face a multitude of access challenges. Faced with a declining talent pool, lower educational attainment, and rising poverty rates caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, there is an urgent need to prepare young people in rural areas for high-demand careers.

As part of the Implementing Workforce Programs for Rural Youth series, this webinar, hosted by the Office of Apprenticeship, focused on best practices and creative solutions for increasing pre-apprenticeship and youth apprenticeship access, enrollment, retention, and program completion for young people in rural areas. Featured youth apprenticeship intermediaries and partners shared their accomplishments in developing youth apprenticeship opportunities in rural areas, establishing networks of support, and best utilizing available resources to ensure pre-and youth apprenticeship success.

MODERATOR(S)

• Maisha Meminger, Manpower Analyst , Division of Youth Services, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration

PRESENTER(S)

• Vanessa Bennett, Associate Director, Center for Apprenticeship & Work-Based Learning, Jobs for the Future
• Zach Boren Senior Policy Program Manager, Urban Institute
• Bhavani Arabandi, Senior Research Associate, Urban Institute
• Jacqueline Rayfield, Policy Analyst, Urban Institute

Link to Webinar Recording and Supplemental Documents

Working with pre-apprentices and apprentices requires a combination of case management and coaching. This webinar provides the fundamentals of case management and coaching and teaches a framework for effective service delivery. This session also focuses on the use of assessments for productive service planning, quality program documentation and team communication for successful handoffs.

MODERATOR(S)

• Luis Roig, Contracting Officer’s Representative, Office of Apprenticeship, U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration

PRESENTER(S)

• Amy Landesman, Grantee Coach, ICF
• Valerie Taylor, Grantee Coach, ICF

Link to Webinar Recording and Supplemental Documents