Capping off ABC’s celebration of craft training for the 75th anniversary of the passage of the National Apprenticeship Act, ABC is reminding its members that in November 2011, ABC updated its National Model Guidelines for Apprenticeship Standards to allow distance learning; competency- and technology-based language; a hybrid and interim credential carpentry program; and reduce payment of benefits as part of the wage and fringe benefits ratios.

The guidelines contain standards for 27 trades and with the addition of distance learning and hybrid models, the standards are much more user friendly for companies and the mobile workforce. They are designed to help members win work and ensure their workforce is trained to deliver that work safely, ethically, and profitably.

In addition, the National Model Guidelines for Apprenticeship Standards serve as a guide for construction apprenticeship programs in all states and are recognized as a part of the U.S. Department of Labor's National Apprenticeship Program.

Many chapters are in the process of updating their standards to be in alignment with ABC’s updated guidelines. For members that run their own programs and would like to see ABC’s guideline, email James Baker, ABC director of workforce development, [email protected].