Top Questions About Apprenticeships and Technical Education Answered

Megan Naves, who works as a Career and Credential Consultant at OOD, has some great insights to share about how OOD helps Ohioans with disabilities get into Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) and Ohio Technical Centers (OTCs). Let's dive into the similarities and differences between these programs, how OOD teams up with them, and why they're such a great opportunity for Ohioans with disabilities.

 

Question: How are Registered Apprenticeship Programs and Ohio Technical Centers alike? How are they different?

Answer: Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) and Ohio Technical Centers (OTCs) both offer training opportunities that include classroom instruction combined with hands-on training. Some OTCs provide classroom instruction for employers who are Registered Apprenticeship Programs, while the employer then provides hands-on training.

They are different in a few ways. RAPs always provide paid on-the-job training while OTCs typically do not provide paid training. OTC programs come with associated costs—though some offer financial aid—whereas RAPs generally cover a portion, if not all, of the training expenses. Some OTC programs can be completed in under a year, whereas a RAP has a minimum duration of one year and typically lasts up to four years. OTCs typically offer hands-on training at their facilities, whereas RAPs conduct training at the employee's workplace.

 

Question: How does OOD collaborate with Registered Apprenticeship Programs and Ohio Technical Centers to provide vocational training opportunities for participants with disabilities?

Answer: OOD’s Career and Credential Consultants partner with RAPs and OTCs to identify training programs leading to credentials (certificates, certifications, licensures) needed for in-demand jobs and apprenticeship opportunities. We share information about regional training options, program requirements, career pathways, and potential outcomes with our Vocational Rehabilitation staff to share with our participants.  

 

Question: What roles do these programs and centers play in OOD’s efforts to help participants gain marketable job skills?

Answer: These programs provide participants with specific hands-on training that prepares them to attain industry-recognized credentials or certifications leading to higher earning potential, better benefits, increased retention, and greater potential for career advancement.

 

Question: How can OOD services benefit individuals participating in apprenticeships/tech centers?

Answer: Vocational Rehabilitation services can provide participants with various support options depending on their needs. This can include counseling to identify available programs,  accommodations for training and job success, and job search assistance upon completion of training. 

 

Question: What do you most want professionals in apprenticeship programs & Ohio Technical Centers to know about OOD?

Answer: OOD’s Division of Employer and Innovation Services offers services at no cost to employers and works closely with the Vocational Rehabilitation program to provide support and guidance to the participants who are completing these programs. We collaborate internally to ensure we are meeting the needs of both the employers and individuals we serve.

 

Question: How can a program or center get started in a partnership with OOD?

Answer: They can visit OOD’s Business Relations webpage to find the Career and Credential Consultant in their area. 

 

Question: Anything else you’d like to share?

Answer: OOD provides a variety of no-cost services to employers, including disability awareness training and candidate sourcing. If you are interested in creating a disability-inclusive workplace, apprenticeship, or internship but are not sure where to start, OOD is ready to assist you!